MAJOR-BREAKING: 🏴‍☠️ “Be a Damn Pirate”: Giants DC Brings Out Treasure Chest to Fire Up Defense As He Introduces His Version Of A Turnover Chain

Giants DC Shane Bowen Wants His Defense to ‘Be Pirates’ in 2025 — Literally

New York Giants defensive coordinator Shane Bowen is embracing a new—and slightly swashbuckling—approach heading into the 2025 season.

As he prepares for his second year under head coach Brian Daboll, Bowen has introduced a unique motivational tool during practices: a “turnover chest.” Yes, an actual treasure chest.

The concept? Reward defensive players who create turnovers, and encourage the mindset of hunting for the ball—like pirates hunting for gold. Bowen has been telling his players to “be a damn pirate.”

Where did the idea come from? Surprisingly, not from college football or the pros—but from his son’s tee-ball team. Still, it echoes the Miami Hurricanes’ famed “turnover chain,” which became a cultural sensation and has since inspired similar sideline celebrations across football.

Last season, Bowen’s defense gave up 24.4 points per game (21st in the league) and struggled to generate takeaways—just 15 all year, with a -8 turnover differential.

If the Giants hope to climb the ranks in 2025, improving that number is non-negotiable. And while the “pirate” gimmick might seem playful, Bowen is serious about using it to fire up his defense.

Whether it’s gold chains or treasure chests, the message is clear: take the ball—or walk the plank.