Coaching Candidate #2: Don ‘Wink’ Martindale, *Ex* Ravens Defensive Coordinator
Don Martindale could be another intriguing, exciting addition to Brian Daboll’s coaching staff if Daboll gets his way.
It appears that Daboll may chase Coach Wink as his No. 1 option to lead his defense with the NY Giants. Martindale was recently let go by the Ravens after running their defense the last four seasons. Coach Wink has been with the Ravens since 2012, helping them win a Super Bowl his 1st season with the team. He previously worked with the Broncos and Raiders beforehand as a Linebackers’ coach and also Defensive Coordinator.
In four years under Martindale’s watch, the Ravens defense has been ranked #2 two times and #3 once in total points allowed on the season. They’ve also been top-10 in yards allowed in the three same seasons under Martindale’s guidance.
The New York Giants could only hope to replicate any kind of success like this defensively. It’s been a while since the team has fielded a strong or dominant defensive unit.
Patrick Grahm has to be mentioned here as he is a legit, viable, and well-qualified candidate. He has worked with Daboll in the past in New England so there is a connection here but he has interviewed in numerous places including with the Vikings for their Head Coach gig this weekend. It seems more unlikely than not that Graham returns at this point unless things change.