Brian Daboll’s probably running out of rope. Three blown games, versus Dallas, Denver, and Chicago, where the Giants had win probabilities of 92.3%, 99.3%, and 96.9% late in the fourth quarter, all ended in losses. The odds of that happening are roughly one in 60,000, and it feels every bit that improbable when you watch it.
At some point, it stops being bad luck. It’s game management, play-calling, and preparation. If this slide keeps up, the question isn’t whether Daboll deserves another year, it’s who comes next. We take a look at five candidates that could become the next Giants head coach.
Who Will Be Next New York Giants Head Coach?
1. Matt Campbell (Iowa State HC)
Matt Campbell has been a steady force at Iowa State, consistently producing competitive teams despite limited resources. His reputation as a culture-builder has kept his name in NFL discussions for years.
Campbell’s ability to instill discipline and maximize talent could benefit a Giants team that has struggled with consistency. The challenge will be whether his approach translates to the NFL, where player management and locker room dynamics are very different from college.
2. Jeff Hafley (Packers DC)
Jeff Hafley made an immediate impact in his first year as the Green Bay Packers’ defensive coordinator. Known for building disciplined units, he improved the Packers’ defense while showcasing strong leadership skills.
His experience at Boston College also proved he can handle the demands of being a head coach (winning a bowl game with the program), even if it was at the college level. Hafley’s lack of NFL head-coaching experience is a factor, but his ability to shape defenses makes him an intriguing fit for the Giants.
3. Kliff Kingsbury (Commanders OC)
Kliff Kingsbury is currently the offensive coordinator for the Washington Commanders and has a reputation for creative play design and quarterback development. His tenure as head coach of the Arizona Cardinals was inconsistent, but he did reach the playoffs and worked effectively with Kyler Murray.
The Giants would need to decide if Kingsbury’s offensive upside outweighs the risks of repeating some of the same issues he faced in Arizona.
4. Mike Kafka (Giants OC)
If the Giants prefer continuity over a full reset, offensive coordinator Mike Kafka is the most obvious internal option. Kafka already understands the roster and has experience as a play-caller.
He has interviewed for multiple head-coaching jobs elsewhere, which shows how the league views his potential. Promoting Kafka would bring stability, though it may not deliver the sweeping change the Giants’ ownership and fan base might want after a disappointing run.
5. Jesse Minter (Chargers DC)
Jesse Minter is quickly becoming one of the hottest names in coaching. After leading Michigan’s defense to a national championship, he moved to the NFL and is already showing promise as the Chargers’ defensive coordinator.
His aggressive style and ability to adjust game plans would give the Giants a clear defensive identity. The only concern is his lack of head-coaching experience at the professional level, but his rise suggests he may be ready for the challenge.
Final Thoughts on Daboll’s Future
The Giants have a range of options if they decide Brian Daboll’s time is over. Minter and Hafley represent defensive-minded, high-upside choices, while Kingsbury and Campbell bring different flavors of experience. Kafka remains the safe in-house pick. Other names floating around include the likes of Steve Spagnuolo, Todd Monken, and Patrick Smith. Whichever direction the Giants choose, they’ll be hoping for an uptick in closing out games they should be winning comfortably.
