Giants Hire Dennard Wilson as Defensive Coordinator Over Rex Ryan

New head coach John Harbaugh considered reuniting with former Jets coach Ryan before opting for Titans DC Dennard Wilson instead.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The Giants' newly appointed head coach, John Harbaugh, revealed he had given serious thought to bringing former Jets head coach and current ESPN commentator, Rex Ryan, onboard as the Giants' defensive coordinator. However, Harbaugh ultimately chose to appoint Dennard Wilson, the former Titans defensive coordinator, to the position.

Why it matters

Harbaugh and Ryan have a history together, with Ryan serving as Harbaugh's defensive coordinator in 2008 when Harbaugh first became the head coach of the Baltimore Ravens. The decision to go with Wilson over Ryan is notable, as it suggests Harbaugh believes Wilson is the better fit to lead the Giants' defense.

The details

During an in-depth discussion on Sunday, Harbaugh shared that he had an extensive conversation with Ryan regarding the defensive coordinator position. Harbaugh also opted to go with the 43-year-old Wilson over other candidates, including former Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver and Broncos assistant head coach Jim Leonhard.

  • On Sunday, Harbaugh revealed he had discussions with Ryan about the Giants' defensive coordinator role.

The players

John Harbaugh

The newly appointed head coach of the New York Giants, who previously worked with Rex Ryan as his defensive coordinator in Baltimore.

Rex Ryan

A former head coach of the New York Jets who has been working as an ESPN commentator since being dismissed by the Buffalo Bills in 2016.

Dennard Wilson

The former defensive coordinator of the Tennessee Titans, who Harbaugh ultimately chose to be the Giants' new defensive coordinator.

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What they’re saying

“I had an extensive conversation with Rex regarding that position. Rex is someone I deeply admire and hold in high regard.”

— John Harbaugh, Head Coach, New York Giants (The Athletic)

What’s next

The Giants will look to Dennard Wilson to help turn around a defense that struggled in recent seasons, as Harbaugh seeks to build a winning culture in New York.

The takeaway

Harbaugh's decision to hire Dennard Wilson over the more experienced Rex Ryan as defensive coordinator suggests he believes Wilson is the better fit to lead the Giants' defense, despite his prior relationship with Ryan.