Harbaugh Reached Out Directly to Titans Owner in Attempt to Acquire Simmons

New York Giants head coach John Harbaugh directly contacted Tennessee Titans owner Amy Adams Strunk in an effort to trade for defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons, according to a report by The Athletic. This move bypassed the typical channels between general managers.

Sources indicated that Giants general manager Joe Schoen had previously been informed by Titans general manager Mike Borgonzi that Simmons was not available for trade. Undeterred, Harbaugh reportedly escalated his efforts by speaking directly with Strunk, who reiterated the team's initial stance.

However, the situation reportedly shifted this week following a meeting with the 1-6 Titans, during which the team decided to begin considering offers for the 29-year-old All-Pro defensive tackle.

Despite Harbaugh's direct appeal, the Giants ultimately did not acquire Simmons. The Chicago Bears secured the defensive tackle in a trade that sent them 2027 and 2028 first-round picks, along with a 2027 fourth-round pick, to the Titans in exchange for Simmons and a 2028 fifth-round pick.

The Giants, who are reportedly still seeking to bolster their roster before the November 10 trade deadline, have also expressed interest in Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor. The Colts have been active in the trade market, having already dealt offensive lineman Quenton Nelson to the Seahawks and defensive lineman DeForest Buckner to the 49ers.

New York currently holds a 4-2-1 record and leads the NFC East by two games in the loss column over the Dallas Cowboys. The team is currently on its bye week. The Eagles and Commanders are set to play, with the loser potentially shifting focus to future seasons.

The Giants' pursuit of defensive line help comes after they traded Dexter Lawrence to the Bengals prior to the 2026 NFL Draft, acquiring the No. 10 pick which they used to select offensive lineman Sisi Mauigoa.