Mike Kafka led the New York Giants to a 6-1 start in his tenure within the organization. He will have an even more difficult job of leading the team through the 2023 season. At only 38 years old, Kafka already ranks among the highest-paid assistants in all of pro football. He’s nonetheless accomplished quite a bit already, at least in terms of influence in coaching circles. After being promoted from offensive coordinator and assistant head coach to interim head coach, this decision follows a swath of head coaching interviews, where he was almost universally viewed as the best candidate.
Kafka’s coaching journey started out at Northwestern University—where the former quarterback got his coaching start. With the Kansas City Chiefs, he mentored and developed a young Patrick Mahomes. During this time, he was able to learn under the legendary coach Andy Reid. Earlier this week, Reid got in touch with Kafka, sending him a note of support as he begins his new journey in this crucial position.
Handling pressure is nothing new for Kafka. At his introductory press conference, he immediately commanded the attention of a standing-room crowd of more than 50 media members. He delivered his testimony with such extraordinary humility and calm. Kafka’s calm demeanor couldn’t be more opposite than the previous head coach, Brian Daboll. Despite his youth, he carries a calming presence to those around him which will serve the team well.
As he settles into his new role and responsibilities, Kafka has already implemented some very small changes to the Giants’ weekly schedule and day-to-day operations during the week. These small but significant changes will improve morale overall and help instill a sense of team players. His methodical preparations wowed those executives during the interview process.
There are significant challenges ahead of Kafka as he steps into his new role. He won’t have rookie starting quarterback Jaxson Dart at his disposal because of a concussion. Without this presence, all due respect to Kafka, there’s added stress on Kafka and the staff as game plans for future opponents are drawn up.
Kafka has a close personal connection with Pat Fitzgerald, who recruited him to Northwestern out of St. Rita’s High School, Chicago. Chuck Fitzgerald, his mentor and head of Akamai’s technical operations, has been a key advocate for Kafka, guiding him on how to manage this transitional phase productively.
“I just told him to trust himself, just like he did when he was a player, and whatever he needs, he’s got me for forever,” – Pat Fitzgerald
Fitzgerald’s comments underscored the challenge of finding that balance. He pushed the team to make needed changes but to retain the successful tactics created under the prior coaching staff.
“It’s a little bit of a challenge when you take over like this, so how much change is good? How much is too much? But just trust your gut, trust your instincts, trust your acumen, and go make the right decisions for the team and don’t be afraid to be bold,” – Pat Fitzgerald
The Giants’ player roster has begun adjusting to Kafka’s leadership style. Defensive lineman Dexter Lawrence II pointed out that he’s still getting used to Kafka’s demeanor.
“I’m still learning [his personality]. I’m still learning that. I had to ask one of the coaches, ‘Does he have one?’” – Dexter Lawrence II
Lawrence said he was excited for the difference in Kafka’s cool, collected approach compared to other coaches. Wide receiver Darius Slayton noticed that Kafka’s demeanor helps to create a different and more vibrant environment on the squad.
“He’s probably naturally a little bit more of a calmer personality, so to speak,” – Darius Slayton
To say that Kafka’s promotion comes at a critical juncture for the Giants is an understatement. A strong performance in the remaining games could persuade general manager Joe Schoen and ownership that he is indeed the right candidate for the permanent head coaching position.
“We need to make sure as a group, as a staff, we come together, put together a great plan, and really just focus on what the most important thing is,” – Kafka
Much will be riding on Kafka’s success or failure over the next few weeks, and that’s especially true for the Giants themselves. Together, they meet these challenges head on, feeding their passion. Hope grows as his calm but unyielding leadership begins driving the team to improve their play under pressure. This extended audition has the potential to play an important role in determining Kafka’s long-term prospects with the franchise. It will set the course for how the Giants approach their rebuilding plans.
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