The New York Giants sit atop the NFC East with a 5-2-1 record heading into Week 10 of the 2026 NFL season, but their strong start has sparked several overreactions among analysts and fans.
Overreaction 1: Giants Are a Fraudulent Division Leader
Critics argue the Giants have not beaten a team with a winning record, as their five wins came against opponents with a combined 13-30 record. However, the team has no control over the schedule and has already upset the Cowboys and Texans, going 4-1-1 in one-score games. A winning record after eight games indicates a legitimate team, and they face the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 11.
Overreaction 2: Mistake Not Trading for a Running Back
The Giants pursued Jonathan Taylor, offering a second and fifth-round pick, but the Colts declined. They also inquired about Bijan Robinson. General manager Joe Schoen opted not to mortgage future draft capital, having already traded a fifth-round pick for J.J. McCarthy and a fourth-round pick for Malachi Fields. The running game has been held under 90 yards in four games, but acquiring Taylor would have likely cost a first-round pick for a back turning 28 in January. The front office prefers to preserve 2027 draft capital to address other needs.
Overreaction 3: J.J. McCarthy Will Challenge Jaxson Dart in 2027
After McCarthy completed 31 of 49 passes for 495 yards with a touchdown and an interception in his first five quarters as a starter, some suggested a quarterback competition with Jaxson Dart in 2027. Even after a subpar Week 9 performance against the Eagles, the notion remains premature. McCarthy must lead the team into the postseason and win a playoff game before serious starter discussions arise. Assessment should wait until after the regular season.
