Although Brian Daboll had been on the hot seat for weeks, his exit still sent shockwaves through the Giants’ organization. Despite naming offensive coordinator Mike Kafka as interim head coach, several candidates have already emerged for the permanent role – including Chiefs defensive mastermind Steve Spagnuolo.
Daboll’s departure had been looming. Unexpected wins over the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 4 and the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 6 bought him some time, but it wasn’t enough.
Sunday’s painful loss to the Chicago Bears – coupled with quarterback Jaxson Dart’s concussion – proved to be the final straw for the head coach, who was in his fourth season with the franchise.
While Kafka has the credentials and potential to secure the job long-term, fans and analysts are linking several high-profile names to the vacancy. Chief among them is Spagnuolo.
Steve Spagnuolo: A familiar face with championship pedigree
Currently serving as defensive coordinator for the Kansas City Chiefs, Spagnuolo tops the list of potential candidates, according to analysts like Patricia Triana of SI.com.
He’s no stranger to the Giants organization. Before becoming Andy Reid’s trusted defensive lieutenant, Spagnuolo served as the Giants’ interim head coach in 2017, following Ben McAdoo’s departure and prior to Pat Shurmur’s arrival.
He also held the head coaching role for the St. Louis Rams from 2009 to 2011. Although his tenure ended with a 10-38 record, his extensive experience gives him a leg up on the competition.
Who else is in the running?
According to Triana, five other candidates are in strong contention for the job:
- Brian Flores – Vikings defensive coordinator and former Dolphins head coach
- Robert Saleh – 49ers defensive coordinator and former Jets head coach
- Jeff Hafley – Packers defensive coordinator
- Kliff Kingsbury – Commanders offensive coordinator
- Klint Kubiak – Seahawks defensive coordinator
Each brings a unique blend of experience and strategy, but Spagnuolo’s deep ties to the Giants and championship résumé may give him the edge.
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