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

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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.

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