SAN FRANCISCO — Insights on New Giants Coach

As the Super Bowl week rolled in, Giants players were curious about their new head coach. Kayvon Thibodeau took the initiative, reaching out to gather opinions about John Harbaugh. He spoke to some veteran players who had worked with Harbaugh, and their feedback painted a consistent picture: he’s an “old-school” coach, tough yet knowledgeable and passionate about the game.

Thibodeau, now 25, is seeing his journey with the Giants extend as they exercise his fifth-year option worth $14.75 million. Last season marked his first victory, but it also came with plenty of losses. He seems genuinely intrigued by the solid reputation Harbaugh has built over 18 years in Baltimore.

“I appreciate that, after a certain age, coaches can be more direct. They tend to speak their minds more freely,” Thibodeau shared on Friday at the Blue Square Anti-Hate Unity Summit. “You notice different cultures in football, where some feel the need to change to stay relevant or fit in.”

“Personally, I lean toward old-school coaches. They don’t entertain nonsense. It’s straightforward. We’ve got a lot of young guys on the team, and I think it’s crucial for him to establish that clarity,” he added.

Harbaugh has the significant task of steering the Giants. Thibodeau hasn’t yet had a conversation with him, but he mentioned keeping in touch with Denard Wilson, the new defensive coordinator.

“I really believe we have a tremendous opportunity on the defensive side,” Thibodeau said. “There are many pieces in play, so we had a brief chat about how he’ll utilize those assets. We’re looking to mix things up and get offensive.”

Thibodeau expressed relief that position coach Charlie Bullen stayed on under Harbaugh. “That was a relief; it felt great, honestly,” he remarked.

Upon hearing that the Cardinals were interested in interviewing Bullen for their defensive coordinator position, Thibodeau reacted strongly. “I had to intervene. We need to keep him with us,” he said.

Thibodeau faced a difficult 2025 season. He played 10 games, posting 25 tackles, 2.5 sacks, and nine quarterback hits before a shoulder injury sidelined him for the last seven games. Thankfully, he received medical clearance and won’t need surgery, so he’ll be ready to train again in the spring.

Even as Thibodeau tries to get familiar with Harbaugh, he recognizes the need to communicate his own strengths as a player. “I consider myself a hard worker, a kind of Swiss Army knife on the field. I always show up and do what’s necessary for the team’s success. I like to think I have a good football IQ, and I’m eager to soak up knowledge and experiences,” he explained.

Additionally, owner Robert Kraft started a foundation in 2019 to combat anti-Semitism and launched the Blue Square Alliance Against Hate in 2025 to motivate others to oppose hatred in all forms. Thibodeau participated in discussions at the Unity Against Hate Summit, emphasizing the importance of promoting understanding across diverse backgrounds. “It’s a privilege and an honor to represent the Blue Square Alliance,” he noted. “Coming from a marginalized community, I believe it’s vital to seek peace and happiness.”