LAS VEGAS — Wink Martindale appears to have been removed from the NFL defensive coordinator job, but could land a competitive position in college.
According to reports, he is a candidate to replace Jesse Minter at the University of Michigan, who will follow Jim Harbaugh to the Chargers.
Chiefs defensive line coach Joe Cullen is also a strong consideration for defending national champion University of Michigan as new head coach Sherone Moore fills out Ann Arbor’s staff.
Cullen will not be available for hire until after Super Bowl LVIII on Sunday.
Martindale, 60, worked for Harbaugh’s younger brother, John, with the Ravens for 10 years.
He was hired by Brian Daboll to run the Giants’ defense in 2022, but lasted just two seasons before a personality conflict forced Martindale to step down with one year left on his contract.
He hasn’t coached in college since 2003, when he served as defensive coordinator at Western Kentucky.
Chiefs get a visit from an old friend
Chiefs coach Andy Reid said the team had an old friend visit before the AFC Championship game, and former offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy stopped by.
Bieniemy just lost his job as the Commanders’ offensive coordinator after new coach Dan Quinn chose not to keep him. Reid said the team is excited to spend time with Bieniemy.
“He talked to the offensive players and was with us in our meetings,” Reid said. “He’s still taking on some jobs.”
Bieniemy was with the Chiefs from 2013 to 2022 and served as their offensive coordinator from 2018 until last year’s Super Bowl victory.
Reid was asked if he would bring Bieniemy back on his staff, but he said he could not answer because there is no vacancy at this time.
“I think his future as a coach is bright,” Reid said.
field report
The 49ers are clearly not happy with the practice field they were assigned to use at UNLV this week, reportedly complaining that it is too soft and loose. It’s also clear the Niners are done talking about it.
“We had a normal practice,” 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan said Wednesday. “Everyone has their own preferences. I wish things were better. [but] This is the best choice for us. ”
NFLPA Executive Director Lloyd Howell weighed in on the situation at UNLV’s stadium.
He said the field is “not in a condition to really give our players what they deserve.”
Chiefs roster moves
The Chiefs activated WR Skye Moore from injured reserve.
They placed DE Charles Omenihu on IR in a corresponding move.
Omenihu tore his ACL during the AFC title game.
