Darius Alexander's late-season surge draws high praise from Giants coach

As the New York Giants' 2025 season nears its end, rookie defensive lineman Darius Alexander has emerged as a bright spot on an improving defense, earning strong commendation from interim defensive coordinator Charlie Bullen for his steady growth and impactful play in recent weeks.

Bullen, speaking for the last time on Thursday, described the experience of watching Alexander's development as "great," drawing parallels to fellow rookie Abdul Carter.

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"Again, just going back to continued improvement and development. We talked about Abdul; I think it's been much the same for DA. He's just been working every week and focused on trying to get better, and it's kind of coming together for him now at this point in the season," Bullen said.

"And that's what you're seeing. But he's stayed focused and steadfast and tried to get better, and it's paying off now. Has it been perfect? It never is for anybody, but he's been working the whole time, and I'm proud of him."

Bullen highlighted Alexander's key contribution to Bobby Okereke's interception against the Raiders, noting a powerful rush that disrupted Geno Smith's throw and led to early quarterback contact -- a deliberate part of the game plan.

"DA had a great rush, a power rush on the guard, and was able to walk him back and affect Geno's throw. So as great of a play as it was for Bobby, DA was as much a part of that and ended up contacting Geno to the ground," he said. "That was a result of him striking with power, using his length, running his feet."

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Bullen also praised Alexander's run defense progress, citing clips where he combined striking blocks with foot drive-building on earlier weeks where he struck well but lacked that finishing element.

"Here he was just continuing to work and took it to the game, run and pass. It was great to see," he said.

Alexander's late bloom underscores the defense's recent strong play and player development focus. It also provides some optimism heading into the offseason.

This article originally appeared on Giants Wire: Darius Alexander's late-season surge draws high praise from Giants coach