The ongoing coaching search for the Giants has taken several intriguing turns, marked by a flurry of interviews and meetings.
As things stand, the Giants have conducted a virtual meeting with Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph. They’ve also hosted former Falcons and Buccaneers head coach Raheem Morris for an in-person session and shared dinner with franchise legend Antonio Pierce prior to an upcoming interview.
Meanwhile, a virtual interview was arranged with Broncos special teams coordinator Darren Rizzi, who briefly served as the Saints’ interim head coach in 2024, finishing with a record of 3-5. There’s also expressed interest in speaking with Davis Webb, the Broncos quarterbacks coach.
Webb, who turned 30 recently, was drafted by the Giants back in 2017 and ended his NFL career as a starter in the last game of the 2022 season.
So, why the strong connection to the Broncos? According to NFL regulations, only assistants from the Broncos and Seahawks, both of whom are playoff-bound, can be interviewed virtually with postseason participants during this week.
Joseph and Rizzi previously worked alongside Giants general manager Joe Schoen while he was in Miami’s front office. Interestingly, Webb is a former prospect of Shane and a mentee of Brian Daboll, recently let go by the Giants and the Bills.
Both Rizzi and Morris hail from New Jersey.
By including Morris and Pierce—who were unexpectedly let go by the Falcons despite a four-game winning streak—the Giants are ensuring they adhere to the Rooney Rule, which mandates two in-person interviews with external candidates.
Pierce was relieved from his duties as the Raiders’ head coach at the conclusion of the 2024 season after playing 26 games. Interestingly, one of his victories occurred during his debut against the Giants. He spent a good portion of the fall at East Rutherford and is quite familiar with the Giants’ organization. He’s known for openly sharing his views, even when they might contrast with others.
Pierce, a middle linebacker considered one of the Giants’ best free-agent acquisitions, famously led the team to wear all black for their Super Bowl XLII flight. It was anything but a “funeral,” as the Giants managed a stunning upset over the unbeaten Patriots in a legendary game.
By following the Rooney Rule, the Giants are on track to make a hiring decision by the end of Friday.
However, it’s worth noting that this search isn’t over yet. Notably, top candidate John Harbaugh has yet to even set an interview time, and the Giants still plan to meet with Mike McCarthy, formerly of the Cowboys and Packers, plus Colts defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, along with other coordinators from teams they’ll face during the Wild Card weekend.
