Giants install run-heavy scheme under Nagy; Dart’s breakout in doubt
Matt Nagy’s appointment as offensive coordinator signals a departure from high-volume passing, raising questions about Jaxson Dart’s sophomore outlook while boosting prospects for Cam Skattebo and Isaiah Likely.
Matt Nagy has been appointed as the New York Giants’ offensive coordinator for the 2026 season, a decision that signals a strategic pivot toward a run-heavy offence. According to CBS Sports, the move is heavily influenced by head coach John Harbaugh’s historical preference for ground attacks during his tenure with the Baltimore Ravens. This structural shift is expected to significantly alter the fantasy football landscape for New York’s skill position players, particularly quarterback Jaxson Dart.
Nagy, a disciple of Andy Reid, will spearhead an offensive staff that includes run-game coordinator Greg Roman and quarterback coach Brian Callahan. While Nagy’s background includes success in the West Coast offence, the integration of Harbaugh’s philosophy suggests a lower passing volume. The Ravens maintained a pass rate below 60 per cent in most seasons, a metric that aligns with the Giants’ previous output under Dart, who averaged a pass on 51.4 per cent of his plays in 2025.
The impact on Dart’s sophomore season is a primary concern for analysts. Dart emerged as the top quarterback on a points-per-start basis in 2025 fantasy leagues, but his continued success now hinges on the health of wide receiver Malik Nabers. Nabers is recovering from an ACL and meniscus injury sustained last year. If Nabers does not return to form, and Nagy limits passing attempts while Dart reduces his rushing volume, Dart’s chances of replicating his breakout performance are considered low.
Conversely, the new scheme presents a high-volume opportunity for running back Cam Skattebo. Skattebo averaged 16 carries and 4.7 targets in six games before suffering a severe ankle dislocation and fractured fibula in 2025. Provided he recovers from the injury, he is projected to receive significant carry volume. Nagy’s historical reliance on running backs who can catch, particularly during his time in Chicago, further supports Skattebo’s value, alongside teammate Tyrone Tracy Jr.
Tight end Isaiah Likely also emerges as a key beneficiary of the coaching change. Likely followed Harbaugh from the Ravens to the Giants and is viewed as a potential fantasy starter due to Nagy’s historical preference for the position. In Chicago, tight ends earned a target share of 18.1 per cent or higher in three of Nagy’s four years. Meanwhile, the reunion of Nagy and wide receiver Darnell Mooney is viewed with skepticism, with analysts doubting Mooney’s viability five years after his peak production in Chicago.
