Micah McFadden undergoes foot surgery and is expected to miss a significant portion of the season, leaving the Giants with a void at linebacker. Darius Muasau will step into an expanded role, potentially anchoring the middle as McFadden recovers. Week 2 brings a divisional duel with Dallas, putting extra emphasis on the Giants’ inside linebacker play and IDP appeal as Muasau absorbs more snaps.

McFadden has been a steady producer since 2022, cracking 100 tackles in consecutive seasons and peaking with 12 tackles for loss and 3 sacks in recent campaigns. Being in a contract year at $3.4 million, his absence reshapes the Giants’ defensive ceiling. The timeline for his return remains uncertain, but the Week 2 matchup against Dallas will test Muasau’s early impact and the Giants’ depth at LB.

The Giants will lean on Muasau to handle a larger share of duties, with the possibility of Abdul Carter and others mixing in. This situation elevates Muasau’s fantasy upside in the short term, especially in IDP leagues that prize tackles and disruption. As New York navigates this setback, the defense will be judged by how quickly the new trio stabilizes against a Cowboys offense known for balance and play-action.