Harbaugh Raises Giants’ 2026 Playoff Expectations

The New York Giants are entering the 2026 season under head coach John Harbaugh, whose history of quickly rebuilding struggling teams has raised expectations after three losing seasons. The roster features promising young talent, including second-year quarterback Jaxson Dart, while running back Cam Skattebo is expected to return from a season-ending leg injury and could receive more than 20 carries per game. Some analysts remain skeptical, with the Giants ranked near the bottom of the NFC and projected to win roughly seven or eight games, but others see them as a potential surprise playoff or even Super Bowl contender. General manager Joe Schoen and Harbaugh have expressed confidence in the team’s talent across all three phases, and reports describe improved buy-in from players such as cornerback Deonte Banks and linebacker Abdul Carter. The Giants open the season against the Dallas Cowboys on Sept. 13.