The Jets are casting a wide net in their search for a new defensive coordinator, and one name that’s quickly gaining traction is Wink Martindale. The veteran coach has already interviewed for the role, and by all indications, he’s one of the top candidates under serious consideration.
Martindale brings a wealth of experience to the table-he’s been coaching since the mid-80s, starting at the college level before making his NFL debut with the Raiders back in 2004. From there, he moved through the ranks, including a stint with the Broncos, before landing with the Ravens, where his reputation really took off.
As Baltimore’s linebackers coach and later their defensive coordinator, Martindale became known for orchestrating aggressive, blitz-heavy schemes that kept offenses on their heels. He was promoted to DC in 2018 and signed a three-year extension in 2020, but the Ravens and Martindale parted ways after the 2021 season.
That departure wasn’t due to a lack of production-Baltimore’s defense under Martindale was consistently tough, physical, and creative. It was more a matter of philosophical differences and a desire for a fresh start on both sides.
That fresh start came with the Giants, where Martindale took over as defensive coordinator in 2022. His tenure in New York was a bit of a mixed bag.
While his aggressive style remained intact, the Giants’ defense struggled in 2023, ranking near the bottom of the league in several key categories: 27th in total yards allowed, 26th in points allowed, 29th against the run, and 19th against the pass. After two seasons, Martindale stepped away from the role.
He didn’t stay out of the game long. Michigan brought him in as their defensive coordinator, and he spent two years helping shape one of the more physical college defenses in the country. That experience, combined with his NFL pedigree, makes him an intriguing option for a Jets team that’s looking to maintain a high standard on defense.
But Martindale isn’t the only coach the Jets are considering. The team has already interviewed a wide range of candidates, including:
- Ephraim Banda, the Browns’ safeties coach
- DeMarcus Covington, who oversees the Packers’ defensive line
- Jim Leonhard, currently an assistant head coach and pass game coordinator with the Broncos
- Chris Harris, the Jets’ own defensive backs coach
- Jim O’Neil, a defensive assistant with the Lions
- Daronte Jones, the Vikings’ defensive pass game coordinator
- Mathieu Araujo, who coaches cornerbacks for the Dolphins
It’s a diverse group, with a mix of up-and-coming minds and seasoned veterans. But Martindale stands out for his deep resume and proven ability to lead a defense at the highest level. If the Jets are looking for a coordinator who can bring pressure, attitude, and a clear identity to their defense, Martindale checks a lot of those boxes.
Now the ball’s in the Jets’ court. They’ve done their homework. The question is whether they want to go with a fresh face or lean on a battle-tested veteran like Martindale to help guide this defense into its next chapter.