The New York Giants were back on the field for another session of open OTA practices, but something felt off right from the start.
While most players were going through warmups, third-round rookie Darius Alexander was on the field—but something was missing.
He wasn’t wearing a helmet. He didn’t take any reps. Instead, he stood on the sidelines while coaches ran through individual and team drills, according to Pat Leonard of the New York Daily News.
It was an odd sight, especially considering how excited the team seemed about Alexander after drafting him.
What made it even more puzzling was head coach Brian Daboll’s refusal to explain Alexander’s absence from drills.
Why Alexander was expected to make an immediate impact
Alexander arrived in New York as a physically ready, high-motor prospect with the college production to contribute right away.
At Toledo, he played 630 defensive snaps in 2023, recording 37 pressures, four sacks, and 27 tackles.
His nonstop energy and pro-ready frame—he’s already 24—had the Giants envisioning him making an early impact, especially alongside star defensive lineman Dexter Lawrence.
The plan wasn’t to slowly ease him in—it was to throw him into the action from day one.
Not a red flag—yet
So far, the Giants haven’t offered any explanation, but there’s no sign that Alexander is dealing with an injury or any major issue.
At this point in the offseason, it’s not unusual to manage reps carefully—particularly for players expected to take on big roles. Veterans routinely get rest days, and rookies can benefit from brief pauses as they adjust to NFL speed.
Still, Daboll’s silence has fueled mild speculation, leaving fans and media wondering what’s going on.
Seeing a promising rookie on the sideline without a helmet is like spotting a race car in the pit lane—you assume something’s being checked.
D-line remains a strength, with or without him
Regardless of Alexander’s temporary status, the Giants’ defensive front remains a clear strength.
Dexter Lawrence is still the anchor, and the team has built strong rotational depth to keep pressure coming in waves.
If Alexander is healthy and back in action by training camp, he’ll only raise the unit’s ceiling.
The Giants have quietly assembled one of the more dynamic defensive lines in the NFC—blending size, speed, and aggression.
While one missed OTA session isn’t a crisis, every small development matters for a team with playoff ambitions.
Minor hiccup—or something bigger?
If Alexander returns soon and begins participating fully, this storyline likely fades fast.
But if he remains sidelined into minicamp or training camp, it could become a bigger concern.
New York needs its 2025 draft picks to contribute, and Alexander was viewed as a crucial part of that class.
For now, there’s no reason to sound the alarm—but until he’s back on the field and suited up, the questions will linger.
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