New York Giants Coaching Search Snapshot

12/25/2025

The New York Giants are deep into a 2026 head coaching search as they look to reset the direction of the franchise after recent struggles. Multiple high-profile names are being discussed, spanning college head coaches, NFL coordinators, and experienced tacticians. Big Blue View

🔥 Hot Topic: Marcus Freeman (Notre Dame)

• Marcus Freeman remains one of the most talked-about candidates for the job.
• He's turned Notre Dame into a national contender with a strong record, making him an intriguing leader with a culture-building résumé.
• But some analysts question whether his lack of NFL experience and relative newness as a head coach could be a stumbling block. 

📋 Offensive Candidates

Nike LaFluer (Rams OC)
• Seattle's offensive mind (listed in rumors) with an NFL play-calling background.
• Could appeal to the Giants' desire for offensive innovation and quarterback development.

Kliff Kingsbury (OC, Washington)
• Former Cardinals head coach with both NFL and college head coaching experience.
• Known for aggressive offense and quarterback work — but mixed results as a head coach and at Texas Tech. 

🛡 Defensive Candidates

Brian Flores (Vikings DC)
• Former Dolphins head coach, bringing both coordinator and head coaching experience.
• There's ongoing chatter about his standing across the league, including interest in dropping past legal disputes with the Giants to have a clean slate.

Aden Durde (Seahawks DC)
• Highly regarded in coaching circles for defensive scheming.
• Represents a strong defensive voice for a Giants team wanting to tighten up on that side of the ball.

Matt Burke (Texans DC)
• Veteran NFL defensive coach with scheme flexibility and experience working with diverse personnel groups.

🧠 Other Names Floating Around

• Mike McCarthy and Steve Spagnuolo are noted in some evaluations as strong fits based on experience and leadership potential. 
• Jeff Hafley (Packers DC) garners attention for defensive acumen. 
• Mike Kafka (Giants interim HC) also gets some consideration due to his existing role and offensive insight. 

📊 Fan Interest

Some fans are even rallying around Chris Shula (Rams DC) as a youthful defensive leader with ties to Sean McVay's coaching tree — though this is more fan-poll enthusiasm than reported front-office pursuit.