Rookie kicker Dominic Zvada made a strong impression in his NFL preseason debut, converting two field goals for the New York Giants in their 26-3 victory over the Miami Dolphins on August 22, 2026. Head coach John Harbaugh, with his extensive special teams background, expressed satisfaction with Zvada's performance.
"I don’t think so,’’ Harbaugh said, smiling, referring to any potential critiques of Zvada's kicking. “Those balls were kicked straight and well.’’ The two successful attempts were from 43 and 38 yards. Ben Sauls also kicked two field goals in the second half, from 27 and 37 yards, and Harbaugh noted that Sauls also performed well.
Harbaugh commented on the typical learning curve for rookies in the NFL kicking game, stating, “Our experience with rookies and that kick is, it takes a while. He was good, probably better than I expected him to be. That’s something those guys have to work on.” Zvada also handled kickoff duties without issue.
In other team news, wide receiver Braxton Berrios was sidelined with a soft tissue issue but is expected back this week. Wide receiver Darnell Mooney was granted permission to miss the game to attend his brother's wedding.
The Giants utilized two starters on their offensive line: center John Michael Schmitz Jr. and left guard Jon Runyan. The remaining starting positions were filled by rookie J.C. Davis at left tackle, Aaron Stinnie at right guard, and Marcus Mbow at right tackle. Rookie right guard Sisi Mauigoa sustained a stinger injury during a joint practice on Thursday. Harbaugh indicated it would have been a game-time decision if it were a regular-season game and that the injury is not expected to be long-term.
On defense, rookie defensive tackle Bobby Jamison-Travis recorded a sack in the first quarter. Joshua Ezeudu entered the game at right guard during the second offensive series. Wide receiver Calvin Austin III handled punt return duties early, with one return going for 19 yards. In the battle for the nickel back spot, Dru Phillips allowed a 30-yard completion and was flagged for pass interference, but later forced a fumble.