Giants Coach Daboll and Rookie Skattebo Fined for Concussion Protocol Breach

New York Giants Fined Following Concussion Protocol Violation
The NFL announced on Friday that the New York Giants have faced penalties due to violations of concussion protocol during their Week 6 victory against the Philadelphia Eagles. Rookie running back Cam Skattebo and head coach Brian Daboll each received substantial fines for breaching the protocol while quarterback Jaxson Dart was evaluated for a concussion.
Skattebo was fined $15,000, whereas Daboll was slapped with a much heftier $100,000 penalty. Additionally, the Giants organization has been fined $200,000. Despite the league's conclusion that neither Skattebo nor Daboll had an actual impact on Dart's evaluation or care, their actions were deemed as showing a disregard for the serious requirements of the concussion protocol.
During the game on October 9, Dart was evaluated for a concussion and missed two plays before returning to the field as the Giants went on to win 34-17. However, both Skattebo's entry into the blue medical tent and Daboll's actions—reportedly yelling at a team doctor—were captured on camera.
After the game, Daboll expressed regret, acknowledging the emotional intensity of the NFL sidelines, saying: "If you've ever been on an NFL sideline, there's a lot of emotions. I certainly am an emotional guy... I just wanted to ensure Jaxson was OK to get back in the game." He later apologized to the team physician, recognizing that he acted inappropriately. Giants president and CEO John Mara also commented on the situation, emphasizing Daboll's realization of the impropriety of their actions and the team's commitment to fully cooperate with the NFL's investigation into this incident.
This incident comes as Dart, now in his third career start, continues to show promise despite the Giants' 2-5 record. The rookie first-round pick boasts impressive statistics: completing 60.2 percent of his passes for 791 yards, seven touchdowns, and three interceptions, alongside rushing for 178 yards and three touchdowns. Skattebo has notably contributed to the offense as well, tallying 398 rushing yards, five rushing touchdowns, and 23 receptions for 189 yards and a score.
As they look ahead, the Giants will aim to return to winning form this Sunday when they face the Eagles once more, hoping to leverage their past performance and bounce back in this key matchup.
