Summary of "Hour 2: Jets & Giants Plans" – Don, Hahn & Rosenberg Podcast

Release Date: March 31, 2025
Hosts: Don LaGreca, Alan Hahn, Peter Rosenberg
Podcast: Don, Hahn & Rosenberg
Episode: Hour 2: Jets & Giants Plans

Introduction

In this episode of Don, Hahn & Rosenberg, the hosts delve deep into the strategic plans of two of the NFL's most scrutinized franchises: the New York Jets and the New York Giants. Focusing on quarterback decisions, draft strategies, and player extensions, the discussion provides insightful analysis into what these teams might be contemplating as they navigate the complexities of the NFL landscape.

Jets' Quarterback Plans

Justin Fields vs. Tyrod Taylor:

The conversation begins with the Jets' quarterback situation. The team's General Manager, Aaron Glenn, expressed strong confidence in Justin Fields as the starting quarterback. Glenn emphasized, “We believe Justin is the starter. We believe we can win with Justin. So we're excited about Justin's potential” (01:46).

However, Aaron Glenn also highlighted the importance of competition within the team. Don LaGreca responded, “This team is going to be built on competition… Everybody has got to have a depth chart. You know, that's what this league is” (02:25). This underscores the Jets' commitment to fostering a competitive environment, ensuring that even with Fields as the starter, other quarterbacks like Tyrod Taylor remain ready to challenge for the position.

Managing Expectations:

Alan Hahn praised the Jets for managing expectations wisely compared to previous seasons. He noted, “They are keeping everything real. Whatever kind of season they have, they're going to tell you that's the season they were supposed to have” (03:27). This approach contrasts with earlier years where lofty expectations often led to disappointment.

Giants' Quarterback Strategies

Quarterback Acquisitions:

Shifting focus to the Giants, the hosts discussed the team's recent signings of veteran quarterbacks Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston. The Giants' General Manager, Joe Shane, conveyed flexibility in their draft strategy: “We're in a position where we can take who we think is the best player, best football player at that time… we can look at many positions and take a guy” (13:17). This indicates a willingness to prioritize positions other than quarterback if the right talent presents itself.

Draft Priorities:

The Giants appear poised to leverage their high draft picks to bolster their defense rather than focusing solely on upgrading the quarterback position. The discussion touched upon potential draft targets like Abdul Carter, a top edge rusher, and Travis Hunter, a versatile Heisman Trophy winner. Alan Hahn remarked, “Carter might be the more effective pick for them” (17:57), suggesting that strengthening the defensive line could provide a more immediate impact compared to chasing another quarterback.

Draft Strategies and Player Extensions

Jets' Player Extensions:

The Jets are also navigating the complexities of player extensions. Aaron Glenn expressed a focus on retaining drafted talent: “I'm in the business of keeping good players… we try to do that as much as possible” (04:28). This strategy aims to create a stable core of players who contribute consistently to the team's success.

Giants' Roster Management:

In managing their roster, the Giants are considering the long-term implications of their signings. Don LaGreca emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong defensive lineup to support their quarterbacks: “I know when I was a player here, we try to do that as much as possible” (04:43).

Speaker Insights and Analyses

Competitive Environment:

Don LaGreca highlighted the significance of competition within both teams’ structures, stating, “There’s going to be competition and he knows that. Tyrod knows that, and that’s across the board” (02:51). This philosophy ensures that players remain motivated and continuously strive for excellence.

Comparative Analysis:

Alan Hahn provided a comparative analysis of quarterback stability across various NFL teams, noting that the Jets and Giants are not alone in their struggles. He mentioned, “The Browns have had 40, 46 most starting quarterbacks” (10:44), illustrating a broader trend of instability at the quarterback position in the league.

Future Outlook:

Peter Rosenberg voiced optimism about the Jets’ and Giants’ strategies, suggesting that their balanced approaches could lead to sustained success. He stated, “If that’s not a bridge, then what is?” (03:27), referring to Justin Fields’ role as both a starter and a potential transitional figure.

Conclusion

The episode provided a comprehensive overview of the Jets' and Giants' current strategies, emphasizing the importance of quarterback performance, draft picks, and player retention. The hosts highlighted the delicate balance these franchises must maintain to build competitive teams while managing expectations and fostering internal competition. As the NFL season progresses, the insights shared by Don LaGreca, Alan Hahn, and Peter Rosenberg offer valuable perspectives on the potential trajectories of these iconic New York teams.

Notable Quotes

• Aaron Glenn on Justin Fields: “We believe Justin is the starter. We believe we can win with Justin. So we're excited about Justin's potential.” (01:46)
• Don LaGreca on Competition: “This team is going to be built on competition… Everybody has got to have a depth chart. You know, that's what this league is.” (02:25)
• Alan Hahn on Managing Expectations: “They are keeping everything real. Whatever kind of season they have, they're going to tell you that's the season they were supposed to have.” (03:27)
• Joe Shane on Draft Flexibility: “We're in a position where we can take who we think is the best player, best football player at that time… we can look at many positions and take a guy.” (13:17)
• Don LaGreca on Keeping Players: “I'm in the business of keeping good players… we try to do that as much as possible.” (04:28)
• Don LaGreca on Competition Across the Board: “There’s going to be competition and he knows that. Tyrod knows that, and that’s across the board.” (02:51)
• Alan Hahn on Quarterback Instability: “The Browns have had 40, 46 most starting quarterbacks.” (10:44)
• Peter Rosenberg on Bridging Roles: “If that’s not a bridge, then what is?” (03:27)

Note: Timestamps correspond to the podcast transcript and are provided in MM:SS format for reference.