After two seasons with the Giants, defensive coordinator Wink Martindale decided to step down.
After the 2024 season, the Giants will have to choose a new defensive coordinator.
According to individuals informed of the situation, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport claimed Monday that Big Blue’s DC, Don “Wink” Martindale, has resigned.
After four seasons with the Ravens, Martindale became Brian Daboll’s assistant with the Giants in 2022.
Just earlier in the day, Daboll expressed his hope that Martindale would continue in his role as defensive coordinator for the upcoming season. After a few hours, the DC will have departed, and the Giants will begin their defense anew.
With a blitz-heavy strategy, Martindale’s defenses were unpredictable, allowing yards at a steady clip (they finished in the third spot for yards allowed every season) while also having an impact on quarterbacks and leading to turnovers. The Giants had 31 interceptions in 2023, good for second in the NFL.
Despite the Giants’ offensive woes and quarterback turnovers, Big Blue was occasionally able to stay in the game because of Martindale’s defense. But the season was characterized by a rift between the DC and Daboll, which both men downplayed.
Martindale drew some head coaching attention last cycle and could again draw interest this offseason. He may potentially be a sought-after coordinator appointment for a club needing a veteran presence on the defensive side.
Martindale’s departure highlights a big day of transition for the Giants. Daboll previously stated the club sacked special teams coordinator Thomas McGaughey, who served six seasons in New York, and offensive line coach Bobby Johnson (two years). Outside linebackers coach Drew Wilkins and his brother, defensive assistant Kevin Wilkins, are both expected to accompany Martindale wherever he settles, per Rapoport.
After a poor second season for Daboll and his club, he’ll start the offseason with wholesale changes to his coaching staff. The first item of business will be identifying a like-minded defense .coordinator
