New York Giants lean on James Hudson III at left tackle as Andrew Thomas remains inactive, with Thomas eyeing a return next week against Kansas City. Rookie Darius Alexander sees action and Elijah Garcia is elevated from the practice squad, while Rakeem Nunez-Roches sits. Xavier Gipson and Wan'Dale Robinson are limited by injuries, and Jameis Winston is listed as emergency QB.

Cowboys will miss DaRon Bland, shaping a game that could hinge on depth and special teams. Devin Singletary looks poised to handle kickoff returns if Gipson remains out. The Giants navigate a patchwork O-line and defensive depth while preparing for a challenging Week 3 date with the Chiefs.

Giants development plan for Darius Alexander takes center stage as Week 2 against Dallas nears. Andre Patterson stresses patience and growth, even as Week 1 run- defense woes intensify pressure on the coaching staff to fix the middle. Alexander could dress but not play much behind Lawrence, Robertson-Harris, Davidson, and Garcia, while Lamb seeks revenge on Dru Phillips in a must-win Cowboys-Giants showdown that will shape fantasy value on both sides.

In Dallas, Lamb’s comments add edge to an already high-stakes matchup, while Washington’s early-season stumble underscores the NFC East’s volatility. For fantasy managers, this week is about monitoring whether the rookie’s delay pays off and whether the Cowboys’ offense can exploit any Giants gaps.

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.