New York Giants interim head coach Mike Kafka is steadfastly focused on the task at hand, brushing aside questions about his future in coaching cycles or securing the full-time role with the team.
When asked if he’s concerned that his interim stint — thrust upon him midseason in a challenging situation following the termination of Brian Daboll — might hurt his candidacy for head coaching jobs elsewhere, Kafka dismissed the notion entirely.
“I really respect the question,” Kafka said. “I’m not really concerned about any of that stuff. That would be super selfish of me to think about that. Where we’re at in this season, my only focus is on the players and the coaches and getting our guys ready to roll. I mean, we’ve got a great opportunity ahead of us with three games left.
“Nothing’s more important than this game right now against Minnesota. So, that’s really where our minds (are) at. That’s where my mind’s at. Watching the tape, getting these corrections made so that we can go and continue to improve, and then let’s get on the tape for Minnesota, let’s go attack those guys.”
Kafka has repeatedly expressed enthusiasm for the interim position despite its difficulties.
“No, I love being the head coach of the New York Football Giants, and it’s a privilege to do this job,” he said. “The challenges and the things that come with it are part of the job. Absolutely, I look forward to it every day, coming into work, to attack it every single day and give our players the best opportunity to be successful.”
With three games remaining, Kafka’s player-first mindset and daily commitment to improvement reflect the kind of leadership that often earns long-term trust in the NFL. Still, it’s a results-driven business, and the constant losing will likely impact Kafka in the upcoming cycle.
This article originally appeared on Giants Wire: Mike Kafka prioritizes present over future as New York Giants interim coach
Reporting by Dan Benton, Giants Wire / Giants Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
