The New York Giants are still in the hunt for a new defensive coordinator to lead John Harbaugh’s defense, and the search has narrowed to a few familiar names-some with direct ties to Harbaugh, others with compelling resumes of their own. Let’s break down the four primary candidates who continue to surface in the conversation, and what each brings to the table.
Anthony Weaver: The Front-Runner… If He’s Available
Anthony Weaver’s name keeps rising to the top of the Giants’ list-and for good reason. The 45-year-old has built a strong reputation as a defensive mind, most recently coordinating the Dolphins’ defense over the past two seasons. Before that, he spent three years coaching the defensive line in Baltimore under Harbaugh from 2021 to 2023, and that connection looms large.
Weaver’s coaching tree is impressive. He got his NFL start in 2012 with the Jets under Rex Ryan, and has since held roles with the Browns, Bills, Texans, Ravens, and Dolphins. He’s no stranger to the AFC grind, and his experience as both a position coach and coordinator gives him the kind of versatility teams covet.
But here’s the catch: Weaver is a hot commodity. He’s already interviewed with the Steelers and Falcons, had two meetings with the Ravens before they hired Jesse Minter, and has interest from the Bills and Cardinals. With five head coaching vacancies still open-Buffalo, Pittsburgh, Cleveland, Arizona, and Las Vegas-Weaver’s next move might not be to a coordinator role at all.
Still, his connection to Harbaugh and familiarity with the defensive culture in Baltimore make him a natural fit if he’s available. The Giants would likely jump at the chance to bring him aboard-assuming he doesn’t land one of those top jobs first.
Jim Leonhard: Smart, Respected, and on a Tight Clock
Jim Leonhard might not have coached under a Harbaugh, but he did play for John back in 2008, Harbaugh’s first season as Ravens head coach. That shared history could carry weight, especially given Leonhard’s reputation as one of the sharper defensive minds rising through the ranks.
After a 10-year playing career, Leonhard made his coaching mark at Wisconsin, becoming the Badgers’ defensive coordinator in 2017 and holding that role through 2022. In 2024, he joined Sean Payton’s staff in Denver, where he’s worn multiple hats-defensive backs coach, pass game coordinator, and most recently, assistant head coach in 2025.
The challenge with Leonhard isn’t his résumé-it’s the calendar. The Senior Bowl kicks off Tuesday in Mobile, Alabama, and the Giants are hoping to have both coordinators in place by then.
The Broncos are playing in the AFC Championship Game on Sunday, and if they win, Leonhard won’t be available until after the Super Bowl. Even if they lose, the Giants would have to move fast-interview him Monday, make an offer, and get him to Mobile the next day.
It’s a tight window, but if the Giants value Leonhard’s football IQ and leadership enough, they may be willing to wait-or move quickly if the opportunity arises.
Dennard Wilson: Familiar Face With a Tough Assignment
Dennard Wilson is another name with ties to Harbaugh, having coached defensive backs in Baltimore in 2023 before taking over as Tennessee’s defensive coordinator the past two seasons. He’s also no stranger to the Giants’ radar-he interviewed for the same role last year before opting to join the Titans.
Wilson’s time in Tennessee wasn’t easy. The Titans won just six games across two seasons, and his defenses didn’t put up eye-popping numbers.
But context matters-he wasn’t exactly working with a loaded roster. Still, he earned the respect of his players, including star defensive lineman Jeffery Simmons, who publicly backed him.
Wilson remains in demand. He interviewed with Jim Harbaugh’s Chargers on Friday for their defensive coordinator vacancy, and his name continues to circulate in coaching circles. His familiarity with both Harbaugh and the Giants gives him a legitimate shot here, even if his recent numbers don’t tell the full story.
Daronte Jones: The Underdog, But Not Out of the Race
Daronte Jones might not be the favorite, but he’s very much in the mix. Currently the defensive backs coach and pass game coordinator for the Minnesota Vikings, Jones has already interviewed with Harbaugh and previously sat down with the Giants during last year’s coordinator search.
Jones brings a wide-ranging résumé that spans the NFL, college football, high school, and even the CFL. His NFL stops include the Dolphins, Bengals, and two stints with the Vikings. That kind of experience across different levels of the game speaks to his adaptability and depth of knowledge.
He’s also drawing interest elsewhere, with the Cowboys, Jets, and Packers all reportedly checking in. So while he may not be the frontrunner in New York, he’s clearly viewed as a rising coach with a future in the league.
The Bottom Line
The Giants are looking for the right voice to lead their defense under John Harbaugh, and they’ve got a solid group of candidates to choose from. Weaver brings the most familiarity and momentum but may be destined for a head coaching gig.
Leonhard offers sharp football acumen and leadership but is racing against the clock. Wilson knows Harbaugh’s system and has earned respect despite tough circumstances.
And Jones, while the dark horse, has quietly built a résumé that’s turning heads.
With the Senior Bowl fast approaching, the Giants’ decision could come down to timing as much as fit. But however it shakes out, the next defensive coordinator will be tasked with shaping a unit that can match the identity Harbaugh is known for-tough, smart, and relentless.