Giants, DC Wink Martindale mutually part ways

Field Level Media|published: Wed 10th January, 14:56 2024

East Rutherford, NJ October 22, 2023 -- Giants defensive coordinator Wink Martindale after a stop on a fourth down play that sealed the game for the Giants. The NY Giants host the Washington Commanders at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ on October 22, 2023. credits: Chris Pedota, NorthJersey.com / USA TODAY NETWORK

The New York Giants and defensive coordinator Wink Martindale have mutually agreed to part ways after two seasons, the team announced Wednesday.

The move comes two days after Giants head coach Brian Daboll announced he expected Martindale to return but fired two of his lieutenants, outside linebackers coach Drew Wilkins and defensive assistant Kevin Wilkins, who are brothers.

The New York Post and ESPN reported that Martindale cursed out Daboll on Monday for firing the Wilkins brothers and stormed out of the building. Daboll wanted Drew Wilkins out, specifically, over concerns of a "fiefdom" with Martindale, per the Post report.

The Giants' defense under Martindale finished 27th overall in 2023 but tied for first in the league in turnovers created.

Martindale, 60, was previously the DC in Baltimore from 2018-21 and in Denver (2010).

He's expected to have suitors this offseason.

The Giants also split with offensive line coach Bobby Johnson and special teams coordinator Thomas McGaughey on Monday.

—Field Level Media