Former Giants linebacker, Jonathan Casillas, is looking for more from the team’s defense in 2025. The Giants’ GM Joe Schoen and coach Brian Daboll need to deliver this year to secure their spots for next year. Casillas, a two-time Super Bowl champion, believes that the key to success for the Giants against a tough NFL schedule lies in a strong defense.
According to Casillas, the Giants have the potential to be dominant on defense with key additions such as cornerback Paulson Adebo, safety Jevon Holland, and edge rusher Abdul Carter. He sees shades of the Giants’ past defenses that troubled Tom Brady in the Super Bowl. While he’s not making direct comparisons, he feels that on paper, this defense has the capability to support the team if the offense falters early in the season.
Casillas, a New Brunswick High alum, played in the NFL from 2009-17 and is now a pregame and postgame analyst for the Giants’ radio broadcast. As he gears up for his Forward Progress Camp, he emphasizes the importance of football and leadership skills for young athletes. The camp, set for June 7-8, includes a free day for fifth through 12th graders and an “elite” camp for eighth graders to high school seniors for a fee of $50. The camp goes beyond football drills, focusing on life skills as well.
The Giants’ defense, under coordinator Shane Bowen, needs to show improvement in its second year. With a disappointing run defense last season, Casillas acknowledges the challenges the team faced. However, he believes that with the offseason additions and more time under Bowen’s system, the Giants have the opportunity to elevate their defense to a dominant level.
In the world of football, things can change quickly. Not really sure why this matters, but it seems like Casillas is onto something with his assessment of the Giants’ defense. Maybe it’s just me, but it feels like a strong defense could be the key to the team’s success this season. Time will tell if the Giants can rise to the challenge of their tough schedule and make a mark in the NFL.
