The New York Giants have parted ways with defensive coordinator Shane Bowen following Sunday’s crushing overtime defeat to the Detroit Lions — the first major personnel move under interim head coach Mike Kafka. The news was first reported Monday morning by NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo.

According to NFL reporter Josina Anderson, outside linebackers coach Charlie Bullen will step in as the team’s temporary defensive coordinator.

Bowen’s dismissal came less than 24 hours after New York squandered a late lead and fell 34–27 in overtime, a loss that officially knocked the team out of playoff contention and dropped it to a 2–10 record. The collapse was far from an isolated incident: the Giants have now blown five fourth-quarter leads of 10 points or more this season — tying an NFL single-season record, per ESPN’s Field Yates.

The defensive numbers paint an even more troubling picture. Through a dozen games, New York ranks last in total defense and rushing defense, 31st in points allowed, and 27th against the pass — a bottom-tier performance across nearly every major category.

Bowen had been in his second season with the franchise after being brought in by former head coach Brian Daboll, who was dismissed earlier this month. Before joining the Giants, Bowen served three years as the Titans’ defensive coordinator.

Kafka explains why the timing was right

Kafka, now two games into his role as interim head coach, said the decision was his alone. He originally backed Bowen immediately after Sunday’s loss but changed course after breaking down the game film.

“When I stepped into this job, I didn’t want to start making decisions without really thinking them through,” Kafka said. “I needed to evaluate everything carefully and determine the best path forward. Today felt like the moment to make that call.”

He added that the on-field results “just weren’t where they needed to be.”

Kafka also expressed strong belief in Charlie Bullen’s ability to energize and refocus the defensive unit for the remainder of the season.