John Harbaugh to the Giants: A Franchise-Altering Move, While Antonio Pierce Eyes Atlanta
The New York Giants just made their biggest move in years - and it’s not hyperbole to say it could change the direction of the franchise. John Harbaugh, a Super Bowl-winning coach with a proven track record of building winning cultures, is heading to New York.
For a franchise that’s been searching for stability and a consistent identity, this is more than just a coaching hire. It’s a statement.
Even though Harbaugh initially left the Giants’ facility without a deal in place, the front office didn’t let him get away. They closed the deal before he could meet with the Tennessee Titans, who were also in the mix. The Atlanta Falcons were another team reportedly in the Harbaugh sweepstakes, but with him off the board, they’re shifting gears - and fast.
Antonio Pierce Back in the Mix - This Time in Atlanta
With Harbaugh landing in New York, former Raiders head coach Antonio Pierce is now in the spotlight for another head coaching opportunity. According to reports, the Falcons are planning to interview Pierce later this week. While Pierce didn’t land the Giants’ job, he’s still very much on the radar in Atlanta.
Pierce’s head coaching résumé is still developing. He went 9-17 overall with the Raiders, including a 4-13 mark in 2024.
That record might not jump off the page, but context matters. After taking over midseason, Pierce led the Raiders to a 5-4 finish as interim head coach - a respectable turnaround for a team that had been spiraling.
His time in Las Vegas wasn’t without its challenges. Game management was an area of concern, and there were reports of tension with some of the team’s star players.
But despite those issues, Pierce earned respect in the locker room. That kind of leadership presence is why some Giants fans were hoping he’d join Brian Daboll’s staff as a defensive coordinator.
He’s clearly got the makeup of a strong NFL coach, even if he’s still refining his approach at the top job.
A Familiar Face in the Falcons' Front Office
There’s also an interesting connection in Atlanta that could work in Pierce’s favor. Falcons president of football operations Matt Ryan - yes, that Matt Ryan - worked alongside Pierce this season as a colleague at CBS.
That relationship could make the upcoming interview more than just a formality. While some have speculated it might be a courtesy meeting, the timing suggests there’s genuine interest.
Even if Pierce doesn’t land the head coaching job in Atlanta, there’s still a path for him to join the staff. Defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich is expected to return, so the DC role likely isn’t on the table. But a position as associate head coach or linebackers coach could be a strong fit, especially given Pierce’s background and leadership style.
Two Teams, Two Visions
The Giants and Falcons are clearly operating with distinct visions for their futures. New York is banking on Harbaugh to bring credibility, structure, and - most importantly - wins. This is a swing for the fences, and given Harbaugh’s résumé, it’s a calculated one.
Atlanta, on the other hand, is still piecing together its next chapter. Whether Pierce ends up as the head coach or in a supporting role, his presence could bring a much-needed edge to a team that’s trying to reestablish its identity.
One thing’s for sure: the coaching carousel is far from over, but the Giants may have just pulled off the biggest move of the offseason. And if the Falcons play their cards right, they might not be too far behind.