Giants topic: John Harbaugh in Reuters photo
Giants topic: John Harbaugh in Reuters photo
John Harbaugh didn’t just watch Jeffery Simmons land in Chicago. The Giants coach reportedly tried to reach the Titans’ ownership directly before the trade was completed.
Jonathan Jones of The Athletic reported the contact, as NBC Sports relayed. The report says it came after Giants general manager Joe Schoen had spoken with Tennessee’s general manager. It does not establish what New York offered.
The Giants were looking for an impact addition
Chicago acquired Simmons and a 2028 fifth-round pick for first-rounders in 2027 and 2028 plus a 2027 fourth. The package is substantial for a defensive tackle, even one of Simmons’ caliber. New York had previously traded Dexter Lawrence, making its interest in another interior standout especially notable.
Giants topic: John Harbaugh in Reuters photo
Oct 25, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; New York Giants head coach John Harbaugh reacts after defeating the Houston Texans in overtime at Reliant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
I’d read Harbaugh’s involvement as evidence of urgency, not proof of a disagreement with Schoen. The report describes an attempt to land the player after the general managers had already been in contact; it doesn’t give enough detail to reconstruct the Giants’ internal discussions.
The market has changed now that Simmons is off it. New York can look for a less expensive rotational defender or keep its picks and continue with its current front. The cheaper route may be more sensible if the next offer also demands premium draft capital.
Interest and outcome are different things
Schoen has said the team will examine possible additions before the November 10 deadline. Harbaugh’s reported call shows the Giants were willing to explore a major one, but Chicago won the deal and the Giants’ proposed terms remain unknown.
The next decision matters more than trying to assign a motive to a phone call. New York still needs to find a player who improves the front at a price it can afford.