Joe Schoen’s televised disaster could trigger fallout nobody expected

The New York Giants' 2024 season will go down as one of the most chaotic in franchise history. A 3-14 record, a quarterback carousel, and a disorganized front office were bad enough, but the decision to put it all on display in HBO's Hard Knocks: Offseason added a whole new layer of embarrassment.

Originally, the Giants' appearance on the show was meant to be a celebratory nod to the team’s 100th season. Instead, it became a front-row seat to dysfunction. From awkward conversations about letting Saquon Barkley walk in free agency to general manager Joe Schoen seemingly out of sync with ownership, the series painted a grim picture of a franchise without direction. Fans might have enjoyed the drama, but the fallout has been severe.

According to NFL Films VP Keith Cossrow, getting teams to sign up for future seasons of Hard Knocks: Offseason is proving difficult. "We’re talking to a bunch of teams about it. But we’ll see what happens," Cossrow said on The Pat McAfee Show. "We need a willing participant on that one. We’re not going to force someone to do that show."

Joe Schoen's Hard Knocks disaster might have ruined it for everyone

The Giants' appearance on Hard Knocks didn't just expose their struggles—it turned their decision-making process into a league-wide punchline.

During one episode, Schoen appeared to clash with owner John Mara over re-signing Barkley, with Mara advocating to keep the star running back while Schoen was less enthusiastic. The result? Barkley joined the Eagles, rushed for over 2,000 yards, and helped Philly to the NFC Championship game. Meanwhile, the Giants averaged just 3.4 yards per carry all season.

Even worse, Schoen’s off-camera moves didn’t back up any of the confidence he tried to project. His inability to patch glaring roster holes—like finding adequate offensive line depth or addressing the quarterback mess—made the entire Hard Knocks experience feel like watching a ship sink in real time.

It’s no surprise other teams are wary of participating after seeing the Giants implode both on-screen and on the field. NFL agents weren’t impressed either. One even described the team’s appearance as “embarrassing to the organization.”

The Giants may have hoped their Hard Knocks debut would provide transparency and build excitement around the franchise. Instead, it showcased the kind of disarray that’s better left behind closed doors. As other teams weigh the risks of opening their doors to HBO, Schoen's blunders might just be the reason they decide to pass.

Who knew Schoen's ineptitude could have such polarizing ramifications? His televised disaster very well could be the nail in the coffin for the critically acclaimed show.