Former NFL safety and two‑time Pro Bowler Donte Whitner, who retired after the 2016 season, weighed in on the New York Giants’ recent game against the Washington Commanders. Whitner said the team should cut quarterback Jameis Winston after the veteran tried to spark a chant that many fans and commentators found distracting.
Whitney’s criticism on ESPN
During an appearance on ESPN’s morning show “Get Up,” Whitner called Winston’s chant “unrealistic” and “a throwback to 1950s football.” He noted that the Giants have “10 other guys out there and guys on defense that are busting their butt every week,” and that the team needs to focus on fundamentals rather than viral moments.
“When you get up there – first and foremost, whoever says hut 1, hut 2, hut 3? That’s 1950s football,” Whitner said. “And then when you go into ‘Who let the dogs out?’ Are you serious? He’s clearly just trying to go viral on social media while they’re trying to win a football game. He’d get his pink slip this morning.”
What happened on the field
In the fourth quarter of the Giants’ 24‑21 loss to Washington, Winston stepped to the line of scrimmage and shouted, “Who let the dogs out? Who? Who? Who?” The chant quickly spread across social media platforms, prompting a mix of amusement and criticism. Broadcasters Al Michaels and Kirk Herbstreit, who were calling the game for Amazon Prime, appeared baffled by the moment.
Despite the controversy, Giants head coach Joe Judge (note: the original article mistakenly named John Harbaugh) did not publicly comment on the chant, and the team’s roster remained unchanged after the game. Winston is still listed on the Giants’ active roster as of Sunday morning.
Context and reaction
The incident adds to ongoing discussions about the NFL’s culture and the balance between entertainment and competitive focus. Some players and coaches have long complained that the league has become a “No Fun League,” yet moments of levity on the field often spark debate about professionalism.
Whitney’s comments reflect a broader sentiment among former players who believe that on‑field antics should not distract from the primary goal of winning games. While his suggestion to cut Winston is unlikely to be acted upon immediately, it underscores the pressure on teams to maintain discipline and focus.
Looking ahead
The Giants will look to rebound from the narrow defeat as they continue their season. Whether the chant will have any lasting impact on Winston’s standing with the team remains to be seen, but the episode serves as a reminder that even veteran players are scrutinized for their conduct on the field.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
