Giants' John Harbaugh bypassed GM in failed bid for Jeffery Simmons

New York Giants head coach John Harbaugh attempted to bypass standard protocol by calling Tennessee Titans owner Amy Adams Strunk directly to acquire All-Pro defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons. Jonathan Jones of The Athletic stated that general managers typically handle negotiations, making this move a break from "traditional NFL trade-talk norms". Strunk informed Harbaugh that the decision rested with GM Mike Borgonzi and she would not overrule him.

One general manager told Jones that Harbaugh's call "violates a code amongst primary football decision-makers, that they will only deal with each other." Titans GM Mike Borgonzi noted he only received a serious offer from Ryan Poles after the deadline approached.

Fantasy impact

Jeffery Simmons will no longer be a factor for the New York Giants' defense, as he now plays for the Chicago Bears. The Giants failed to secure the 29-year-old four-time Pro Bowler, leaving their interior defensive line without the targeted upgrade. Titans owner Amy Adams Strunk confirmed she empowered Borgonzi to make the football decisions, effectively ending the Giants' pursuit.

What to do

Start Jeffery Simmons as a DT1 with the Chicago Bears for the upcoming Week 9 matchup. He remains a high-volume pass rusher who will anchor the defensive line in his new environment.