Full Breakdown
Giants Close Preseason with 23-6 Win Over Jets, Roster Decisions Loom
8/30/2026, 7:57:23 AM
Final Preseason Showdown
The New York Giants wrapped their 2026 preseason with a 23-6 victory over the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium. A 6-yard rushing touchdown by Tyrone Tracy Jr. gave the Giants a 7-6 lead early in the first quarter, and a 23-yard field goal before the two-minute warning extended the margin to 10-6. Late in the fourth quarter, Jake Haener connected with Xavier Gipson on a 37-yard touchdown pass, sealing the final score. The Jets’ only points came on a 1-yard run by Chip Trayanum in the first half.
Key Performers Influencing Roster Spots
- Dominic Zvada (K) – Perfect on five attempts, converting three field goals (23, 53, 46 yards) and two extra points, earning the kicking job.
- Odell Beckham Jr. (WR) – Caught three passes for 53 yards on six targets, keeping him in the depth-receiver conversation.
- Trace Ford (LB) – Generated three pressures, including a sack on Jets quarterback Cade Klubnik, and recorded five tackles (four solo).
- Xavier Gipson (WR/RS) – Led the Giants with two receptions for 54 yards, including the touchdown, and returned the opening kickoff 39 yards, the longest return of the preseason.
- Najee Harris (RB) – Signed days before the game, logged 11 carries for 39 yards as an early-down option behind the injured Tracy.
- Evan Neal (OL) – Logged 60 snaps, allowed no pressures and committed no penalties, bolstering his case for a backup guard spot.
Injuries Impacting Depth Charts
Tyrone Tracy Jr. left the second quarter with a neck injury; he was evaluated for a concussion and cleared to return, opening a potential backup role for Harris. Jets running back Chip Trayanum suffered a neck injury late in the first half after a hit by Trace Ford; he was taken to a hospital, placed in a neck brace and later reported alert. The Giants also saw defensive tackle Darius Alexander produce limited numbers, recording one tackle, four pressures and a sack.
Official Statements & Responses
Head coach John Harbaugh praised Zvada’s performance, stating the rookie “did great” and “will win the job.”
Verbatim Quotes
- “I would say Ben also won a job,” — John Harbaugh
- “When you're able to [take up two gaps] as a big man, that allows the linebackers to get a chance to run,” — Aaron Glenn
What’s Next
The Giants must trim their roster to 53 players by the Sunday deadline at 6 p.m. EDT. With the preseason concluded, the team will focus on final evaluations of bubble players such as Zvada, Sauls, and the edge-rush prospects. The regular season opens on September 13 when the Giants host the Dallas Cowboys in a Sunday Night Football matchup. The Jets open against the Tennessee Titans on the same date.
