New York Giants: 2 great defensive coordinator options to target

There is a possibility that the New York Giants retain Patrick Graham as the defensive coordinator moving forward, given his likeness within the organization. However, there’s also a good chance they move on with a clean slate in mind, as new general manager Joe Schoen prepares to hire his coaching staff.

If Schoen moves forward with new faces, there are several intriguing prospects on the market that could fit the bill nicely for what the Giants are trying to accomplish in the future. Having experienced coaches within the system is a necessity, especially if the team plans on hiring an offensive coordinator for the Buffalo Bills, Brian Daboll.

Two great defensive coordinator options for the Giants:

1.) Wink Martindale

The Ravens and Martindale elected to part ways just a short while ago, noting their mutual success but the desire for a change in guard.

“After several productive conversations, Don and I have agreed to move forward in separate directions. We have had a great run on defense, and I am very proud of what has been accomplished and the work he has done. Don has been a major contributor to the success of our defense since 2012, and especially since he became defensive coordinator four years ago. He has done a great job. Now it is time to pursue other opportunities. Sometimes the moment comes, and it’s the right time. I am personally grateful for our friendship and for everything he has done in Baltimore.”

Martindale is an extremely qualified option at defensive coordinator for Big Blue. In fact, he impressed Giants bras two years ago when he interviewed for the head coach job, so he could still be on their radar.

The former Baltimore DC is known for his aggressive style of defensive playcalling, specifically when it comes to blitzing. However, his unit struggled this season, despite a myriad of injuries that limited his ability to call the game. Martindale’s defense ranked 25th in total defense, 363.4 yards allowed per game, and ranked last in passing yards allowed with 278.9.

Losing top corner Marcus Peters before the season began was a tough blow, and things only got worse with Marlon Humphrey sustaining a pectoral injury in December, ruling him out for the rest of the season. Nonetheless, Baltimore’s defense has always relied on physicality and speed, two attributes that usually contribute toward productive units.

Baltimore also runs a 3–4 scheme, so the Giants personnel fits his mold already.

2.) Vic Fangio

Another name that comes to mind for the Giants is Vic Fangio, who the Denver Broncos recently fired.

With 30 years of coaching experience under his belt, Fangio is an experienced asset that could bring exponential value to the Giants as defensive coordinator. His former employers include the Chicago Bears, San Francisco 49ers, Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, and Carolina Panthers, all as the defensive coordinator. There’s no doubt he can handle a significant load at the job, and having a rookie head coach might suggest this is an efficient move.

In addition, with Fangio’s head coaching experience, he could likely assist Daboll if he were to land a job. Fangio has always had good relationships with players and front office personnel from a work ethic standpoint, coined as a defensive mind. Unfortunately, he was unable to propel the Broncos to the postseason, but he is still an incredibly valuable coach who could be a perfect fit with the Giants.