Giants Tried to Hire Former NFL Head Coach as Defensive Coordinator

John Harbaugh revealed he spoke extensively with Rex Ryan about the Giants' DC job before settling on Dennard Wilson.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The New York Giants have undergone several coaching changes this offseason, including hiring John Harbaugh as their new head coach. Harbaugh revealed that he spoke at length with former NFL head coach Rex Ryan about becoming the Giants' defensive coordinator, but ultimately hired Dennard Wilson for the role.

Why it matters

Ryan has extensive experience as a defensive coordinator and head coach in the NFL, so his potential hiring would have been a significant move for the Giants' defense. The fact that Harbaugh pursued Ryan shows the team's desire to build a strong defensive staff under the new head coach.

The details

According to Harbaugh, he 'talked to Rex about that job at length' before the Giants hired Dennard Wilson as their defensive coordinator. Ryan was Harbaugh's first defensive coordinator when he took the Baltimore Ravens' head coaching job, but Ryan left after just one season to become the head coach of the New York Jets. Ryan has not been involved in coaching since being let go as the Buffalo Bills' head coach in 2016.

  • On February 15, 2026, Harbaugh revealed he spoke with Ryan about the Giants' defensive coordinator job.

The players

John Harbaugh

The new head coach of the New York Giants.

Rex Ryan

A former NFL head coach who Harbaugh reportedly spoke to about becoming the Giants' defensive coordinator.

Dennard Wilson

The Giants' new defensive coordinator, hired after Harbaugh's discussions with Ryan.

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What they’re saying

“I talked to Rex about that job at length. Rex is a guy I love and have a lot of respect for.”

— John Harbaugh, New York Giants Head Coach (sportsnaut.com)

The takeaway

Harbaugh's pursuit of Ryan for the Giants' defensive coordinator role shows the team's commitment to building a strong defensive staff under the new head coach. While Ryan ultimately did not take the job, the Giants were able to land an experienced coordinator in Dennard Wilson.