What we learned from New York Giants' 23-6 win over New York Jets

The New York Giants concluded their 2026 preseason by defeating the New York Jets 23-6 at MetLife Stadium on Friday night. This victory marked the Giants' second win this summer, and they will now prepare for roster reduction on Sunday. Their next game is scheduled for Sept. 13 against the Dallas Cowboys in a Sunday Night Football matchup.

Here are three key insights gleaned from the Giants' commanding performance against the Jets. The Giants possess a formidable running back room. Signing veteran Najee Harris last week provided answers to concerns regarding workload management and snap counts. Harris, though not showy, is an ideal early-down back capable of disrupting defenses.

The Giants have five running backs at their disposal, ensuring ample options in the running game. The team aims to emphasize its running strategy this season, and the preseason demonstrates the effectiveness of this approach. Special teams have become a significant strength for the Giants. John Harbaugh's strategic hiring has paid off, with a top-tier punter in Jordan Stout and a promising kicker in Dominic Zvada.

The return and coverage units have demonstrated increased discipline under coordinator Chris Horton. This improved cohesion has resulted in a more formidable special teams unit. The Giants' defense has undergone a remarkable transformation. Critics may recall the team's vulnerabilities last year, but this group now operates as a well-oiled machine.

Regardless of individual players, defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson has instilled a sense of urgency, speed, and physicality in the defense. Despite facing challenges with key players unavailable for preseason games, Giants supporters are optimistic about the defensive progress observed so far.