Giants’ defensive leaders send blunt message after latest loss to Commanders

After another disheartening defeat, this time a 27-22 loss to the Washington Commanders, New York Giants fans might be hoping for some silver linings.

However, instead of focusing on the positives, key defensive voices in the locker room have taken on a more serious tone. Giants’ defender Brian Burns didn’t hold back, calling for team maturity and an end to self-inflicted errors that continue to define their 2-7 season.

Burns initially voiced this call for maturity following their Week 8 defeat to the Pittsburgh Steelers. “It’s about growing up,” Burns remarked, his frustration evident after another close yet ultimately disappointing loss. “The coaches can only do so much. It’s on us now.”

NY Giants' defense calls for accountability and maturity amid losing streak

While the Giants came close to a comeback against Washington, mounting a late rally, their mistakes were still glaring. Missed tackles, blown coverages, and questionable decisions in critical moments left fans wondering if this team can learn from its mistakes.

Burns doubled down on the "growing up" comments following New York's loss to the Commanders by saying, "Grew up in ways. Not so much in other ways."

After the game, Dexter Lawrence didn’t hold back in assessing the Giants' defensive performance against the Commanders, calling out the team’s lack of situational awareness.

"We’ve got to be better at situational, knowing what's going on during the game and how we've got to perform during that time of the game,” Lawrence said, emphasizing that missed assignments and mental lapses continue to haunt the team week after week.

The defensive breakdowns were especially apparent, as rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels easily escaped pressure, facing zero sacks and little resistance as the Commanders capitalized on big plays.

This theme of mental errors and lapses in focus has plagued the Giants throughout the season.

Defensive miscues, like missed tackles and blown coverages, allowed the Commanders to pull away, leaving the Giants' defense struggling to contain even routine plays. Burns, a leader on the field, has been vocal about his disappointment, attributing these losses to a lack of discipline and focus.

With the season nearing its midpoint, the Giants need a dramatic turnaround. But for Burns, Lawrence, and other frustrated defenders, the message remains clear: before the Giants can start winning, they need to grow up.

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