Linebacker Carter Coughlin, selected in the seventh round of the 2020 draft, displayed his best performance during this year’s training camp.
Coughlin, renowned for his contributions to special teams, recognized the growing need for him to excel in the role of inside linebacker on the defensive side. This realization came as a response to the NFL’s recent kickoff rule changes, which grant favorable field position after fair catches and reduce the prominence of specialists like Coughlin.
In response, Coughlin demonstrated remarkable self-awareness and dedicated significant effort to address what he saw as his “weaknesses” at linebacker. He collaborated closely with coaches, both within and outside the Giants organization, to bring about tangible improvements, positioning himself as a dependable backup.
Throughout the offseason, he diligently worked with Blake Freese and the Elite Athletic Performance team in Eden Prairie, Minn. Together, they engaged in “unorthodox drills” that enhanced Coughlin’s ability to perform effectively in open spaces, react swiftly in challenging situations, and make rapid decisions under high-speed conditions.
In addition to his professional growth, Coughlin also celebrated a personal milestone as he recently became engaged to his girlfriend, Yossiana “Yossi” Pressley.
The couple gathered friends and family to help celebrate the special occasion.
During his first two seasons with the Giants, Coughlin participated in 21 games, making two starts. He recorded 16 tackles (13 solo), 1.0 sack, 2 quarterback hits, 2 tackles for loss, and contributed with 7 special teams tackles.
In the 2021 season, Coughlin appeared in 7 games, accumulating 2 solo tackles and 4 special teams tackles. He notably registered 2 special teams tackles against Atlanta (9/26) but suffered an ankle injury against Carolina (10/24), leading to his placement on season-ending injured reserve on November 1.
Check out more of his new fiancé below:
