As the New York Giants hustle to fill out their coaching staff under new head coach Brian Daboll on the offensive side of the football, the defensive staff is beginning to take shape as well.
The hiring process had slowed until the Giants knew the fate of coordinator Patrick Graham, who was a finalist for the Minnesota Vikings’ head coaching position.
On Wednesday evening, the Vikings informed Graham he was no longer being considered for the job, paving the way for his return to the Giants. And with him likely back in East Rutherford, a few assistants will also remain, reports Dan Duggan of The Athletic.
Veteran defensive backs coach Jerome Henderson will be retained, according to a source. Expect assistant defensive backs coach Mike Treier to return as well since he has a close relationship with Graham.
Assuming Graham does return — and there’s no reason to believe he won’t — you can expect the remainder of the staff to be rounded out quickly. Graham was also the assistant head coach under Joe Judge. There is no indication that he would be stripped of that title should be return.
In 2020, Graham’s unit was ranked 13th overall in the NFL in total defense. They fell to 21st last season under more trying conditions, including season-ending injuries to captains Blake Martinez and Jabrill Peppers, and an inept offense that left the defense on the field nearly 33 minutes per game.
