Dennard Wilson Emerging as a Strong Candidate for Giants’ Defensive Coordinator Role
The Giants’ search for a defensive coordinator under new head coach John Harbaugh is heating up, and while Anthony Weaver and Jim Leonhard remain prominent names in the mix, Dennard Wilson is starting to gain serious traction as a potential fit.
Wilson, 43, brings a deep résumé and plenty of NFL experience to the table. He spent the past two seasons as the defensive coordinator in Tennessee, a tenure marked by mixed results.
The Titans ranked 28th in points allowed and 21st in yards allowed this past season-numbers that don’t jump off the page-but it’s worth noting that the year prior, they were second in yards allowed, even as they finished 30th in points allowed. That kind of statistical split often speaks to situational breakdowns or offensive struggles putting the defense in tough spots, rather than a lack of schematic soundness.
Before taking over in Tennessee, Wilson had a notable one-year stint on John Harbaugh’s staff in Baltimore as the Ravens’ defensive backs coach. That 2023 Ravens defense was elite-first in points allowed, sixth in yards allowed-and Wilson’s fingerprints were all over a secondary that played fast, physical, and disciplined. That unit helped propel the Ravens into the postseason and served as a springboard for both Wilson and then-defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald, who is now leading the Seahawks and has them knocking on the door of the Super Bowl.
Wilson’s coaching journey has taken him through several respected defensive programs, including stops with the Rams, Jets, and Eagles. He’s well-versed in multiple defensive systems and has a reputation for connecting with players, especially in the secondary.
While Wilson is a compelling option, Weaver and Leonhard haven’t been ruled out. Weaver, who most recently served as the Dolphins' defensive coordinator, is still being considered for head coaching roles with the Steelers and Bills. That could pull him out of the Giants' orbit if one of those opportunities materializes.
Leonhard, meanwhile, is coming off a strong season as the Broncos’ defensive pass-game coordinator. He’s expected to be active on the interview circuit once Denver wraps up its AFC Championship showdown with the Patriots. He’s already spoken with the Jets, and the Cowboys had shown interest before hiring Christian Parker as their new DC.
Leonhard’s ties to the Midwest could make him a natural fit in Green Bay, where the Packers are looking to replace Jeff Hafley after he left to take the Dolphins' head coaching job. Leonhard, a Wisconsin native and former Badger, would be a popular pick there.
The Packers finished 11th in points allowed and 12th in yards allowed last season-solid numbers that suggest a unit with talent and room to grow. Compared to that, the Giants have struggled defensively, landing in the bottom third of the league in both categories over the past two seasons.
That’s the kind of challenge that might appeal to a coach looking to make a mark.
Leonhard also has a connection to John Harbaugh, having played for him during the 2008 season. That familiarity could help if the Giants decide to go in his direction.
Meanwhile, on the West Coast, Jim Harbaugh’s Chargers are making their own moves. They’ve requested permission to speak with Zach Orr, who served as the Ravens’ defensive coordinator the past two seasons under John Harbaugh.
That opening came about when Jesse Minter left to take over as head coach in Baltimore. Interestingly, there are reports suggesting John Harbaugh isn’t looking to bring Orr with him to New York, at least not in a coordinator role.
As always, the NFL coaching carousel keeps spinning. But as the Giants weigh their options, it’s clear they’re casting a wide net-and Dennard Wilson is very much in the conversation.