Ranking the New York Giants Coaching Staff: Ben McAdoo’s First Crew
By Mike Luca
1. Patrick Graham (Defensive Line)
Disclaimer: New England Patriots defensive coordinator Matt Patricia would have been an ideal head coach for the New York Giants.
With nothing to be done about it now, a defensive-oriented up-and-comer would re-establish their old identity and simultaneously liven the atmosphere, keeping McAdoo efficiently manning a top-10 offense. Hailing from the school of Bill Belichick is just icing.
Patricia seems to eventually be in line to take over for Belichick. McAdoo instead did the next best thing in stealing New England’s d-line guru Graham, which will make all the difference.
Graham converted to linebackers coach his previous two seasons in New England, assisting the unprecedented Pro Bowl campaign of Jamie Collins. The Patriots recorded 49 sacks in 2015 (No. 2 in the NFL) while the front seven collectively boasted the No. 9 rushing defense (98.8 YPG allowed). New York finished at No. 24 (121.4 YPG allowed).
He’s expectedly one of those quiet but lethal talents bred in Belichick’s championship valor. Graham replaces Robert Nunn with a vote of confidence and looks to reinforce tough-nosed football for the Giants pass rush. Hopefully, he still finds the fun of it all along with the rest of team and is allowed to actually express himself every once in a while.
Plus, much like taking their jabs at the Eagles, attempting to beat a rival by forcing their confidantes to join you is downright diabolical as Spags and Graham work the line back to 2007-08 status.
Graham is simply the most reputable addition to a rehabilitating defensive staff. Collaborations with Zgonina, McGovern and the “retainments” will ultimately speak volumes for an offensive rookie head coach’s ability to stockpile competent headsets on the other side.