Charlie Bullen Takes the Helm as Giants’ Defensive Coordinator
At least it’s not a brand-new experience this time.
In his debut as the Giants’ defensive coordinator, Charlie Bullen called the plays during their challenging 33-15 defeat against the Patriots a couple of weeks ago. The day was a mixed bag—filled with both positive and negative moments.
Bullen stepped in after Shane Bowen was let go by interim coach Mike Kafka following a disappointing Week 12 loss to the Lions. Previously coaching outside linebackers, Bullen is preparing to take the field again this Sunday against the Commanders.
“Probably the best part, or perhaps the most surprising thing, was feeling a rhythm and flow during the game that made me comfortable,” Bullen explained. “You can’t replicate that without actually being in it. We weren’t quite sure how it would really feel, and during the two weeks leading up to the game against New England, we were studying everything—volume, scripting—and it was challenging.”
“Going through that, knowing how the game unfolds and getting a sense for the opposing play-caller, it shaped my approach this week. That was unexpected, but honestly pretty cool. I’m glad to have had that experience now.”
Special teams missteps contributed significantly to the Patriots hitting 33 points. On the flip side, Bullen’s squad allowed only three field goals in the second half.
In another development, without Lane Kiffin, quarterback Jackson Dart wouldn’t have likely evolved into a first-round draft selection during his time at Ole Miss. Dart, who has a close relationship with Kiffin, was keenly watching as Kiffin’s departure to LSU unraveled.
“Oh, that’s wild,” Dart remarked. “With Kiff, he tends to surprise you. I’m excited for his next chapter. He’s going to dedicate himself to that program and do some great things.” He expressed gratitude for the continued support from the coaching staff, specifically mentioning [Pete] Golding. “I felt it was a bit inconsiderate not to let those guys see the season out. I’m thrilled to see them compete in this year’s national championship.”
Amidst the Giants’ ongoing kicking troubles this season, one particular mistake against the Patriots stood out. Yonghoe Koo, surprisingly, attempted a field goal without even swinging his leg.
“Yes, that was definitely unusual,” Kafka noted. “It’s not the kind of thing you witness often. But he bounced back, took responsibility, and got back to work. We don’t want these mistakes to become a pattern. He’s focused on correcting it. Overall, the kicking operation could have been much cleaner.”
Before Sunday’s game, the Giants made several roster adjustments. They signed wide receiver Darren Kumble and linebacker Tomon Fox from the practice squad, and activated defensive lineman Elijah Chatman, punter Cameron Johnson, and linebacker Darius Muasau from the practice squad and injured reserve, respectively.
To accommodate these changes, they placed outside linebacker Victor Dimkeje and cornerback Nick Jones on injured reserve, while waiving cornerback Jarrick Bernard-Converse.
