The New York Giants open the 2026 NFL regular season against the Dallas Cowboys on Sept. 13 at 8:20 p.m. ET on NBC at MetLife Stadium, entering the campaign under a revamped coaching staff and a heavily altered roster, according to team announcements and reporting from Stadium Rant.
Roster Overhaul Under Head Coach John Harbaugh
The Giants enter a new era in the Meadowlands following the hiring of head coach John Harbaugh, prompting a sweeping evaluation of the depth chart across all units. According to Stadium Rant’s roster projections, the team returns key starters while integrating several high-profile free-agent acquisitions and draft picks ahead of the regular-season opener.
Quarterback and Backfield Dynamics
Jaxson Dart secures the starting quarterback job after playing 12 games in his previous campaign, where he recorded 2,272 passing yards, 15 touchdowns, and five interceptions, alongside 86 rushing attempts for 487 yards and nine scores, as reported by Stadium Rant. Eleven-year veteran Jameis Winston returns for his second season in New York to serve as the primary backup. In the backfield, running backs Cam Skattebo and Tyrone Tracy Jr. project as the starting duo. The pair missed significant time together during the previous season due to injuries, appearing in just six games concurrently. Devin Singletary and Damon Bankston provide depth behind the starters, with Bankston representing the youngest option in the running back room.
Receiving Corps and Tight End Additions
Malik Nabers and Darius Slayton anchor the wide receiver room as roster locks, with Nabers returning from a torn ACL and Slayton remaining under contract through the 2027 season, according to Stadium Rant. The franchise added free agents Darnell Mooney and Calvin Austin, spent a third-round draft choice on Malachi Fields, and brought back Odell Beckham Jr., who stood out during practice sessions. Braxton Berrios rounds out the receiving corps due to his proficiency in the return game. At tight end, the Giants signed Isaiah Likely to a three-year, $40 million contract. Likely pairs with third-year tight end Theo Johnson, while Chris Manhertz and Thomas Fidone—who currently sits on the physically unable to perform list—depth out the position following Daniel Bellinger’s departure in free agency. Additionally, fullback Patrick Ricard joins the offense on a two-year, $7.63 million deal.
Offensive Line and Season Outlook
Andrew Thomas anchors the offensive line at left tackle, with Jermaine Eluemunor starting opposite him at right tackle, according to Stadium Rant. The interior features veteran Jon Runyan at left guard and center John Michael-Schmitz, who enters the final year of his rookie contract. With final roster cuts finalized and Harbaugh establishing a shifting culture, the Giants prepare to host their rivals on Sunday night football.
