Why NY Giants’ Patrick Graham turned down Jets head coaching job

NY Giants defensive coordinator Patrick Graham explained why he turned down the opportunity to become the Jets’ head coach this offseason

NY Giants defensive coordinator Patrick Graham was instrumental in New York’s turnaround on defense last season, and was among the more sought after head coaching candidates in the league this offseason, including by the New York Jets.

However, instead of jumping at the opportunity to interview for the job that ultimately went to former San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator Robert Saleh, Graham returned to Joe Judge’s staff and is excited about what’s being built with the NY Giants.

"“To me, the Giants, this is my dream job to be here as the defensive coordinator for the New York Giants,” Graham told reporters prior to Wednesday’s practice. “So I’m just happy to be here. I don’t know, it’s nothing against them or anything. I’m just happy to be a New York Giant.“I happen to be here working with one of my friends, Joe Judge and I’ve got a great group of guys to work with and a great group of coaches and players. I mean, these guys, our coaches on defense, these guys are top-notch. Who wouldn’t want to have that work environment. That’s why I like it.”"

Last season, Graham’s defense ranked 12th in the NFL in total defense, surrendering an average of 349.3 yards per game. But, after signing cornerback Adoree’ Jackson in free agency to start opposite James Bradberry and bringing back Leonard Williams along the defensive line, expectations are markedly higher in East Rutherford.

Graham’s continued success will only raise his profile in terms of teams’ head coaching interest in future cycles. But, from the sounds of it, at least for now, Graham is content as a defensive coordinator.

"“To be honest with you, it’s not the focus,” Graham said. “The focus is to coach ballplayers, teach, be around these guys, do a good job for my boss, my head coach and whatever I’m doing, I’m making sure I’m making my parents proud and my family proud.”"

Matt Lombardo is FanSided’s National NFL Insider and writes Between The Hash Marks each Wednesday. Email Matt: Matt.Lombardo@FanSided.com, Follow Matt on Twitter: @MattLombardoNFL