When the New York Giants signed Russell Wilson, they didn’t just add a veteran quarterback — they brought in a leader who could influence the team from day one.
And that influence is already showing up in how the team structures its practices.
During a recent media session, head coach Brian Daboll revealed that Wilson played a key role in implementing changes to the Giants’ offseason workout routine — specifically, an increase in seven-on-seven drills.
“Obviously, we’ve added some more seven-on-seven reps here. That’s something that Russell feels really good about,” Daboll said.
These situational-based drills allow quarterbacks and receivers to work on timing, reads, and coverage recognition — all without the full pressure of an 11-on-11 setting. It’s also beneficial for defenders, helping them match routes, adjust zones, and simulate real-game scenarios during non-contact periods.
Wilson’s input came naturally. With experience under legendary coaches like Pete Carroll, Sean Payton, and Mike Tomlin, he brings a perspective few others do.
A Mentor and Leader for the Locker Room
Beyond his impact on the field, Wilson has quickly become a central figure in the locker room.
His leadership, relentless energy, and willingness to mentor rookie Jaxson Dart have not gone unnoticed.
Daboll praised Wilson’s approach:
“He’s been good for us in a number of ways since he’s been out here.”
That includes offering feedback on practice structure, working with young players, and reinforcing the culture Daboll wants to build in East Rutherford.
Wilson sees himself not just as a starter, but as a teacher and guide, especially for Dart, whom the Giants drafted in the first round this year with hopes of grooming him into a long-term solution at quarterback.
The early signs are promising: Wilson is fully invested, both in helping the team win now and preparing for the future.
How the Seven-on-Seven Change Helps the Giants
The Giants’ decision to increase seven-on-seven reps isn’t just about getting extra throws in — it’s strategic.
As Daboll explained:
“You can do a half line to see coverages. You can do a full field, seven on seven… We’ve placed a little bit more emphasis on it.”
This type of rep helps quarterbacks like Wilson and Dart work through progressions, while also giving defenders, particularly the back seven, opportunities to react and adjust in real time.
It’s a subtle but important tweak to their preparation — and one that Wilson helped shape based on what he’s seen throughout his career.
Looking Ahead: Building Chemistry Before Training Camp
With minicamp wrapping up, the Giants now turn their attention to training camp, where things will get significantly more intense.
But the foundation laid this spring, led by veterans like Wilson, will be critical in ensuring the team stays on the same page.
Whether it’s leading huddles, guiding young players through film sessions, or influencing coaching decisions, Wilson is doing more than just playing quarterback.
He’s helping reshape the Giants’ identity — one rep at a time.