The New York Giants are continuing to reshape their coaching staff under new head coach John Harbaugh, and the latest addition brings a familiar face from Baltimore. Former Ravens defensive line coach Dennis Johnson is expected to join Harbaugh in New York, according to reports.
Johnson, 37, spent the past two seasons coaching the defensive line in Baltimore - his first stint in the NFL. While his exact role with the Giants hasn’t been officially announced, all signs point to him stepping into a similar position on the defensive front. That would make him the likely successor to Andre Patterson, the longtime defensive line coach recently let go as part of Harbaugh’s sweeping changes.
Johnson’s coaching journey began back in 2012, and he’s climbed the ranks steadily ever since. He’s held stops at Northwestern State, LSU, and Baylor, building a strong foundation at the college level before making the leap to the pros. His time in Baltimore under Harbaugh gave him a front-row seat to one of the league’s most consistently physical defensive units - experience that will be valuable as the Giants look to reestablish their identity in the trenches.
Harbaugh has wasted no time putting his stamp on the Giants’ staff, retaining only a select few from Brian Daboll’s regime. Outside linebackers coach Charlie Bullen and tight ends coach Tim Kelly are sticking around, but nearly every other position is getting a fresh face. Johnson is now the second confirmed coach making the move from Baltimore to New York, joining former Ravens running backs coach Willie Taggart.
For a Giants team that’s been searching for consistency and toughness up front, Johnson’s arrival could be a key piece of the puzzle. He’s young, but he’s been tested at the highest level and brings a clear understanding of Harbaugh’s defensive expectations. If he can help revamp the Giants’ front line the way Baltimore’s unit performed under his watch, this hire could quietly become one of the more impactful moves of the offseason.