Giants aim to snap a 0-2 start by facing Dallas in a pivotal NFC East clash. Golston’s switch from Dallas to New York adds inside knowledge as Dexter Lawrence, Darius Slayton, Andrew Thomas, Graham Gano, and Casey Kreiter anchor a defense built to win in the trenches. Dallas counters with a retooled front led by Parsons, Williams, and a different run game. Giants must start fast to slow Dallas and salvage early-season momentum.

For fantasy players, the emphasis is edges and line battles: Giants’ interior pressure with Golston and Lawrence, Slayton’s targets, and Cowboys back Javonte Williams in a run-heavy game plan. The coaching chess could determine who surfaces for Week 2 points in a rough-and-tumble division showdown.

A wave of Hawkeye NFL alums heats up the opening night slate as veteran moves and fresh opportunities reshape fantasy value. Chauncey Golston lands with the New York Giants on a three-year, $18 million deal, hinting at a stronger NYG front despite his Dallas roots. Noah Fant signs with Cincinnati on a one-year, $2.75 million pact, eyeing a path to more production behind Gesicki with Joe Burrow at the helm. James Daniels joins the Dolphins on a three-year, $24 million contract to anchor the interior line. Cooper DeJean stands out in the preseason, hinting at a real NFL path, while Brandon Scherff retires after a storied career.

Giants sign Chauncey Golston to a three-year, $18 million deal after his best NFL season (5.5 sacks, 56 tackles) with Dallas, but Abdul Carter’s No. 3 overall pick in 2025 makes the edge/DT rotation crowded. Golston insists he’ll play wherever he’s needed and bring versatility to a defense chasing improvement. The move sets up a high-upside front with Carter’s development as a focal point.

With Golston, Carter, Thibodeaux and Burns on board, New York leans into a multi-position defense. Dexter Lawrence II anchors the interior, aided by Roy Robertson-Harris and Darius Alexander, while Parsons-type comparisons for Carter spark optimism about a feared rush. The unit’s growth hinges on how quickly Carter adapts and how Golston leverages his adaptability to maximize snaps.

Giants defense could be a matchup nightmare in the trenches with Dexter Lawrence II anchoring the interior. Lawrence has posted elite grades across run-stopping and pass-rushing over the last three seasons, providing a steadying presence that lets disruptive edge players like Kayvon Thibodeaux, Chauncey Golston and Abdul Carter flourish. If the offensive line can stabilize, New York may quietly elevate its playoff odds behind a front that can consistently disrupt from the snap.

Offensively, Nabers flashed star potential despite quarterback instability, and Skattebo could emerge in short-yardage and reception roles. Healthier blocking from Thomas and improved guard play would unlock more creative play-calling. A more competent line could turn the Giants from underachievers to dark-horse contenders in a competitive NFC.

The Dallas Cowboys showcased formidable defensive prowess in the 2024 season, recording a remarkable total of 52 sacks. Micah Parsons led the charge with 12 sacks, reaffirming his status as one of the league's elite pass rushers. Chauncy Golston contributed significantly with 5.5 sacks, while Carl Lawson added 5.0 to bolster the team's defensive efforts. This collective effort not only highlights the Cowboys' strength on defense but also positions them as a formidable contender for the upcoming season.