The New York Giants lost their first NFC East game of the 2026 season on Thursday night, falling 24–21 to the Washington Commanders in a closely contested home game. Several mistakes—particularly in the fourth quarter—helped cost New York a victory that seemed within reach.
Giants head coach John Harbaugh’s conservative decisions late in the game also drew attention, including his choices about whether to go for it on fourth down. But one moment involving quarterback Jameis Winston became a separate talking point: his unusual cadence on a fourth-and-one play.
## Donte Whitner Calls for Winston’s Release
Late in the fourth quarter, the Giants tried to draw Washington offsides. Winston used a cadence that included a rendition of “Who Let the Dogs Out” by the Baha Men.
Former San Francisco 49ers safety Donte Whitner criticized the move on ESPN’s *Get Up* and said the Giants should cut Winston.
“I’d cut Jameis Winston this morning. It was so unrealistic,” Whitner said. “You have 10 other guys out there and guys on defense that’s busting their butt every week, and it’s very hard and difficult to win a game in the National Football League.”
Whitner also questioned whether Winston was trying to draw attention on social media while the team was attempting to win. A two-time Pro Bowler and 11-year NFL veteran, Whitner argued that the cadence was unprofessional. However, it is unlikely the Giants will release Winston over the incident.
## John Harbaugh Defends the Cadence
Harbaugh said Friday that he was not bothered by Winston’s cadence. He explained that Winston had used similar sounds throughout the season, and that the specific words were not the main issue.
Harbaugh also noted that the Commanders stayed disciplined and did not jump offsides. If Winston’s cadence is not causing a problem within the team, there may be little reason to keep revisiting the moment.
