Todd Monken Reuniting with John Harbaugh in New York: What It Means for the Giants-and What Georgia Lost
Todd Monken is heading back to the NFL spotlight, this time in New York, where he’s expected to join John Harbaugh’s new coaching staff with the Giants. The move reunites the two after their time together in Baltimore and marks another chapter in Monken’s pro coaching journey. But for Georgia fans, it’s also a reminder of just how big an impact Monken had during his time in Athens-and how much his departure has lingered in the program’s trajectory.
From Athens to the NFL: Monken’s Impact Still Echoes
Let’s rewind for a second. Monken spent three seasons as Georgia’s offensive coordinator from 2020 to 2022, and during that stretch, the Bulldogs reached heights that hadn’t been seen in decades.
He didn’t just call plays-he elevated the entire offense. Under his guidance, Georgia found its rhythm, its identity, and most importantly, its edge.
Stetson Bennett IV went from walk-on to national champion, and the Dawgs played with a level of offensive confidence that matched their already elite defense.
Since Monken’s departure to Baltimore, Georgia hasn’t returned to the national championship game. That’s not to say it’s all about one coach-college football is more complex than that-but Monken’s absence has been felt.
The offense has remained solid under Mike Bobo, but Monken brought a level of innovation and adaptability that’s hard to replicate. He had a knack for tailoring his system to fit his personnel, and he did it with a calm, commanding presence that players bought into.
A Fresh Start in New York
Now, Monken is expected to help Harbaugh turn around a Giants franchise that’s been stuck in neutral for the better part of two decades. New York has cycled through head coaches and quarterbacks, but stability has been elusive. With Harbaugh taking over and Monken likely running the offense, the Giants are hoping to finally build something sustainable.
One of the more intriguing pieces in New York is former Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart. He’s got the arm talent, mobility, and edge that could thrive in Monken’s system-if the pieces around him come together.
Monken’s ability to develop quarterbacks and scheme to their strengths could be exactly what Dart needs to take the next step. It’s a big "if," but the potential is there.
Harbaugh Didn’t Wait Around
This hire didn’t come out of nowhere, but it did move fast. Harbaugh was reportedly set to interview with other teams-Atlanta and Tennessee among them-but Giants owner John Mara didn’t let him leave the building without a deal.
That kind of urgency tells you how serious New York is about turning the page. Harbaugh brings credibility, and Monken brings a proven offensive mind.
Together, they’re a compelling duo for a franchise in desperate need of direction.
A Bittersweet Memory for Georgia Fans
Back in Athens, Monken still holds a special place in the hearts of Georgia fans. He’s been spotted wearing Dawgs gear around the Ravens’ facility, and that loyalty hasn’t gone unnoticed.
But make no mistake-he’s not coming back to replace Bobo. At least not anytime soon.
And that’s okay. Monken’s time at Georgia was special, and maybe we didn’t fully realize it in the moment.
It’s easy to take success for granted when it’s happening, but looking back, it’s clear how much of Georgia’s recent dominance was tied to Monken’s offensive vision. He was never flashy on the sidelines, but his play-calling spoke volumes.
He knew how to win, and more importantly, how to evolve with the game.
The Game Is Changing-So Is the Coaching Landscape
With the expanded 12-team playoff now in full swing, college football is entering a new era. Coaching staffs are more important than ever, and continuity is becoming harder to maintain.
Georgia’s staff turnover in recent years has been a challenge, and Monken’s departure was a big part of that. Programs have to adapt, and the Bulldogs are no exception.
Monken’s move to New York is a win for the Giants, a fresh opportunity for a coach who’s spent most of his career in the NFL. But for Georgia, it’s a reminder of how vital coaching chemistry can be-and how rare it is to find someone who fits as seamlessly as Monken did.
He may be back in the pros, but in Athens, his legacy is secure. Dawg Nation was lucky to have him.