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Giants Fire DC Shane Bowen After 33–26 Loss to Chiefs Amid Defensive Struggles


East Rutherford, NJ – September 22, 2025

The New York Giants have parted ways with defensive coordinator Shane Bowen following Sunday’s 33–26 defeat to the Kansas City Chiefs, a move that comes amid growing concerns about the team’s underperforming defense.

Bowen, who had stepped away temporarily starting September 10 due to personal issues unrelated to health, returned to the sideline only to oversee a third straight loss. The Giants’ defense—already ranked near the bottom of the league after a Week 1 collapse—once again faltered, allowing multiple deep completions and failing to contain Kansas City’s passing attack.

In Bowen’s absence earlier in the season, the inside linebackers coach handled defensive play-calling duties. Team sources indicate he will continue in that role on an interim basis while New York evaluates longer-term options.

Giants officials cited both performance and health-related concerns in explaining the decision. Opponents are averaging nearly 29 points per game across the first three weeks, fueling pressure inside the organization for a swift change.

“We appreciate everything Shane has done for our team, but at this time, we felt it was necessary to move in a different direction,” one Giants executive said Monday. “We have high expectations on defense, and accountability comes with that standard.”

The firing marks the latest shake-up for a Giants team trying to rebuild its defensive identity under head coach Brian Daboll. For Bowen, his short-lived tenure ends with frustration, as inconsistency and a poor start ultimately cost him his position.

Steelers Add Two Former Packers Fan Favorites to Practice Squad To Strengthen Defense Ahead Of Browns Game
  PITTSBURGH – On Wednesday, October 8, 2025, the Pittsburgh Steelers welcomed two linebackers formerly with the Green Bay Packers for a workout session. The players invited were Michael Barrett and Isaiah Simmons, as the team looks to bolster its defensive unit ahead of upcoming games. Isaiah Simmons, selected as the 8th overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft out of Clemson, has appeared in 84 games. He has recorded 329 tackles (226 solo, 103 assisted), 8.5 sacks (74 yards), 5 interceptions (127 yards), 2 interception touchdowns, 9 forced fumbles, and 3 fumble recoveries. Simmons, who briefly signed with the Packers in 2025 but didn’t make the final roster, is known for his versatility and impressive speed. Michael Barrett, a 7th-round pick (240th overall) by the Carolina Panthers in the 2024 NFL Draft out of Michigan, has limited NFL experience. He has appeared in a few games on practice squads with teams like the Packers and Browns but has yet to record significant stats (0 tackles, sacks, or interceptions). At Michigan, Barrett had a standout final college season with 65 tackles, 3 sacks, and 3 forced fumbles. Alex Highsmith, a key linebacker for the Steelers, suffered a high ankle sprain during the team’s Week 2 loss to the Seattle Seahawks on September 14, 2025. The injury sidelined him for Weeks 3 and 4, with an estimated recovery time of 4-6 weeks. While Highsmith was not placed on injured reserve to maintain roster flexibility, he is still recovering post-bye week and expected to return soon. However, the Steelers are seeking temporary replacements for the edge rusher position. The workouts with Barrett and Simmons reflect head coach Mike Tomlin’s cautious approach to adding depth to the defense, especially after releasing Ja’Whaun Bentley and losing Jon Rhattigan to the Raiders. Simmons, with his experience and athleticism, could be an ideal short-term option to support T.J. Watt and Nick Herbig. The Steelers have not yet announced any contract decisions regarding the two linebackers. SOURCE: https://x.com/FarabaughFB/status/1976031373946388722