Giants’ Matt Nagy Poised to Expand Playbook Options for J.J. McCarthy’s First Start

The New York Giants’ revolving quarterback situation continues to challenge offensive coordinator Matt Nagy’s strategic planning.

Nagy estimated that the Giants lost approximately 30 percent of their playbook—the dual-threat quarterback elements including zone reads and run-pass options—when Jaxson Dart suffered an injury in Week 2, forcing a switch to traditional pocket passer Jameis Winston for four starts.

Now, with J.J. McCarthy stepping into the starting role for Sunday’s game against the Houston Texans, that percentage is beginning to recover.

“Maybe now 20 percent of that 30 that was gone is back,” Nagy said before Thursday’s practice. “We’re evaluating what he does well, and while we’ve seen some of his packages, we want to avoid becoming predictable. With him as the starter, it actually benefits us that he won’t always be brought in specifically for predictable quarterback runs.”

In just his second appearance since being acquired from the Vikings in a September 28 trade, McCarthy delivered a remarkable fourth quarter—completing 243 passing yards and orchestrating three scoring drives—that nearly rallied the Giants from a 24-point deficit in their 34-27 loss to the Saints.

The performance validated the coaching staff’s belief that McCarthy had turned a corner and was prepared for expanded responsibilities.

“The confidence comes from his ability to communicate with us during practice about the scheme, understanding where his eyes should be in the passing game, and recognizing the snap count with motion or shifts,” Nagy explained.

“Had there been an emergency with Jameis or another injury situation, our play-calling would have been limited. Initially, I maintained a highlighted call sheet for him—maybe 50 percent of the playbook. Last week, that increased to roughly 90 percent. Now, he’s ready for 100 percent.”

Tight end Isaiah Likely emphasized that the other ten offensive players have a duty to supporting McCarthy during his transition to a new system.

McCarthy possesses two willing receivers who consistently create separation, allowing him to unleash his powerful throws—among the strongest in the league at 50 mph—with a career average of 12.4 yards per completion against secondaries known for creating turnovers.

“As long as the ball is in the air and in my direction, it’s a good pass regardless of coverage,” Likely said. “Just throw the ball, trust me, and I’ll make the play.”

McCarthy becomes the eighth quarterback that star receiver Malik Nabers has caught passes from in just 25 career games.

Nabers’ approach to adapting with each quarterback remains straightforward: “Get open; just get open. They’ll find you because they know their guys. When you talk to them, give them motivation. Remind them that even though they’re new, certain plays are designed for you. Even when you’re covered, give me opportunities.”

While McCarthy showed poise executing the no-huddle offense against the Saints, the question remains whether he can sustain performance across all four quarters.

“His operational awareness is exceptional,” Nagy noted. “From receiving the play call in his headset to communicating it or reading it on his wristband, getting to the line, analyzing formations and motions, tracking the play clock, making adjustments with the center, and ultimately executing—the totality of his process has been impressive. He’s eager to absorb as much of our offense as possible.”

The Giants could have delayed McCarthy’s first start until after their bye week, potentially giving him additional preparation time in a less challenging environment. Instead, they’ve chosen to accelerate his debut against a formidable opponent.

“We wouldn’t have made this decision unless we believed in his capabilities,” Nagy stated. “Our entire coaching staff, particularly quarterbacks coach Brian Callahan, has done outstanding work preparing him. We’re confident moving forward.”

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