The Washington Commanders and New York Giants are set to square off this Sunday in a battle that feels more like a collision course toward the top of the 2026 NFL Draft order than a playoff chase. At 3-10 and 2-11 respectively, both teams have had seasons to forget-but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing at stake. In fact, there’s plenty to watch for when these two NFC East rivals meet in Week 15 at the Meadowlands.
This is a rematch of their Week 1 clash, when the Commanders handled the Giants 21-6. But three months later, both teams look drastically different. The injuries have piled up, the quarterback situations have shifted, and the narratives have changed-especially in New York, where a rookie quarterback has given fans a reason to look toward the future with cautious optimism.
Quarterback Carousel: Mariota vs. Dart
Washington will once again be without rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, who’s been in and out of the lineup this season. That means Marcus Mariota will get the nod for the seventh time this year. He’s a veteran presence, and while he’s not the long-term answer, he’s managed to keep the offense functional at times, especially when the run game is clicking.
On the other side, the Giants are rolling with rookie Jaxson Dart, who wasn’t under center in Week 1-Russell Wilson was. Dart has had his own battles with injuries, but when he’s been on the field, he’s brought a spark the Giants haven’t seen at quarterback in years.
He’s got the arm, the athleticism, and the moxie. But he’s also taken a beating-four concussion evaluations and one confirmed concussion this season have raised serious durability concerns.
His aggressive, old-school style of play is part of what makes him exciting, but it’s also what makes his future a bit uncertain. Still, there’s no denying it-Dart looks like a guy New York can build around.
The Abdul Carter Roller Coaster
Linebacker Abdul Carter came into the league with as much buzz as baggage. The talent was never in question-he’s got the speed, instincts, and physicality to be a game-changer.
But off the field, it’s been a different story. Chronic tardiness led to fines under Brian Daboll and two benchings under interim coach Mike Kafka.
That said, there’s been a noticeable shift since the bye week. Carter’s reportedly been more locked in-showing up early, staying late, and diving into film study.
If that version of Carter sticks around, the Giants could have a cornerstone piece on defense.
Coaching Carousel: Kafka’s Case
Speaking of Kafka, he’s been in the mix as a potential candidate for the permanent head coaching job. Early on, he looked like a strong contender, especially after making swift changes like firing defensive coordinator Shane Bowen.
But things have unraveled a bit. A Monday night collapse against the Patriots raised eyebrows about his in-game management, and a strange postgame press conference didn’t help his case.
Then came internal drama, including the firing of defensive line coach Bryan Cox over something as odd as airplane seating arrangements. Kafka may still get interviews elsewhere, but his chances of sticking in New York as the head coach seem to be fading.
Defense: Burns Shines, the Rest Falters
If there’s been one consistent bright spot on this Giants team, it’s edge rusher Brian Burns. He’s been every bit the elite pass rusher they hoped for when they brought him in.
But outside of Burns, the defense has been a disappointment. The front seven, expected to be a strength, is currently dead last in run defense and near the top of the league in missed tackles.
The secondary hasn’t helped either-safety Tyler Nubin hasn’t taken that next step, and cornerback Deonte Banks is trending toward bust territory. Injuries have played a part, sure, but the lack of depth and questionable coaching decisions-especially under the now-departed Bowen-have taken their toll.
Draft Implications and a Familiar Feeling
Here we are again-two NFC East teams, both spiraling, both in the running for the No. 1 overall pick. As of now, the Giants hold that top spot, with the Commanders sitting at No.
- A Giants win could shake up the draft order significantly.
But here's the twist: the Giants have been more competitive than their record suggests, while Washington has looked lifeless at times. That said, the Giants have historically struggled against backup quarterbacks, and Mariota fits that bill.
Washington’s ground game could be the difference-maker here, especially with New York’s run defense in shambles. If the Commanders can control the clock and avoid turnovers, they’ve got a real shot to snap their eight-game losing streak.
Prediction: A Win That Feels Like a Loss
This one feels like a classic case of "winning the battle, losing the war." The Commanders may walk away with the scoreboard victory, but in the grand scheme-particularly the draft order-it could hurt more than help. Meanwhile, the Giants might add another loss to the column but inch closer to securing the top pick in the draft.
Final Score: Commanders 23, Giants 21.
In a season where both teams are looking ahead to April, this game could quietly shape the future of two franchises.