A defensive strategy reminiscent of Wink Martindale’s aggressive style might make a comeback with the Giants.
While Martindale’s exit from East Rutherford was marked by friction with former head coach Brian Daboll, it’s still possible that some of his previous assistants might be in line to work with the soon-to-be Giants head coach, John Harbaugh.
Harbaugh and Martindale separated in 2022, but it seemed like a bigger deal in Baltimore than it did for Martindale, who has since moved on.
Here are seven candidates to consider for the role of Giants defensive coordinator.
Denard Wilson, Titans
Wilson was Brian Daboll’s top choice for defensive coordinator in 2024, but he ended up with the Titans. He spent four seasons with the Jets and two with the Eagles, working under Harbaugh in 2023. Wilson progressed to a defensive backs coach position. Interestingly, the Titans ranked second in yards allowed, yet in 2024 they fell to 30th, followed by 21st and then 28th in the subsequent years.
Anthony Weaver, Dolphins
If things don’t pan out for him seeking head coaching roles with teams like the Ravens, Steelers, or Falcons, he could easily be sought after as a coordinator. A former second-round pick from Notre Dame, Weaver has been an NFL assistant since 2012 and worked as Harbaugh’s assistant head coach in 2022 and 2023. His coaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of stripping the ball during tackles.
Zach Orr, Ravens
Could Harbaugh potentially bring back the Baltimore dynamic duo of Todd Monken on offense and Orr on defense? Orr played under Harbaugh from 2014 to 2016 and has been part of his coaching staff every year since 2017, except for one game in 2021. During two separate years, he has also been the play-caller. The Ravens led the league in rush defense in 2024, a challenge the Giants have consistently faced.
Drew Wilkins, Rams
Martindale may have burned bridges during his departure from the Giants in 2024, but his protégé Wilkins appeared to have remained on good terms. He was the Giants’ outside linebackers coach in 2022-23, the same period when Kayvon Thibodeau was drafted. Since then, he’s taken on similar roles with the Patriots and the Rams. If he does become a head coach, would he consider joining Rams defensive coordinator Chris Shula’s crew or perhaps replace him?
Joe Cullen, Chiefs
A seasoned NFL defensive line coach, Cullen spent five years under Harbaugh as a position coach before taking a year as the Jaguars’ defensive coordinator. Joining the Chiefs in 2022, he has played a vital role in the development of young talents like George Karlaftis and standout Chris Jones. The Giants might want to consult Steve Spagnuolo regarding Cullen.
Charlie Bullen, Giants
While there’s no particular rapport between Harbaugh and Bullen, he has received internal recognition for streamlining operations and enhancing offensive strategies during his interim stint as play-caller for five games. The Cowboys have shown interest in interviewing Bullen for their defensive coordinator position despite his current contract. Moreover, he shares a good relationship with prospective head coach Vance Joseph.
Antonio Pierce
The former Giants player stepped away from the NFL in 2025 after being dismissed as the Raiders’ head coach. He has remained in East Rutherford and recently interviewed for a head coaching position. Although he hadn’t previously called plays in the NFL, he did so during his time at Arizona State. If he’s open to it, maybe a position as linebackers coach would be a more suitable fit.
