The New York Giantsâ head coaching search continues to expand, and the franchise is casting a wide net as it looks to reset after another disappointing season. According to Diana Russini of The Athletic, the Giants have added former San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator Robert Saleh and Seattle Seahawks offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak to their interview list.
It was previously reported that the initial list consisted of former NFL head coaches Mike McCarthy and Antonio Pierce, Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley, Colts defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, and Rams defensive coordinator Chris Shula.
With general manager Joe Schoen under pressure to get this hire right, the Giants appear focused on candidates who can stabilize the organization while helping shape the next phase of the rosterâespecially at quarterback.
Robert Saleh Brings Defensive Identity Despite Struggles
Salehâs name immediately jumps out due to his familiarity with the New York market and his reputation as a defensive culture-builder. During his time with the 49ers, Saleh helped establish one of the leagueâs most respected defenses, consistently ranking near the top in yards allowed and passing defense despite ongoing instability on offense.
While his overall win-loss record with the Jets leaves room for criticism, many around the league believe Saleh was hamstrung by quarterback injuries and roster limitations rather than schematic shortcomings. His background as a coordinator under Kyle Shanahan in San Francisco, combined with his ability to command a locker room, makes him a compelling option for a Giants team that has struggled with identity and consistency.
For the Giants, Saleh would represent a return to defensive roots, something the franchise historically values. The key question would be his offensive plan and whether he could assemble a staff capable of modernizing an attack that has lagged behind much of the NFL.
Klint Kubiak Represents Youth, Offensive Upside
On the other end of the spectrum is Klint Kubiak, a rising offensive mind who has quickly built credibility within the Shanahan coaching tree. As Seattle’s offensive coordinator, Kubiak has been praised for his adaptability, quarterback-friendly system, and ability to maximize playmakers through motion and misdirection.
Kubiakâs offenses are built on balance, efficiency, and explosive play opportunitiesâareas where the Giants have consistently fallen short. His candidacy suggests the Giants are seriously considering an offense-first approach, particularly with the future at quarterback still unresolved.
As the son of Super Bowl-winning coach Gary Kubiak, he has built his own legacy in leading successful offenses in Seattle and previously with the Saints. He can adapt his offensive scheme to its personnel, something that could help the Giants maximize their raw talent.
Hiring Kubiak would be a bet on upside and development, with the expectation that he could help mold a young passer or revive the value of the position through scheme rather than star power alone. The risk, of course, lies in his lack of experience as a head coach and whether he can command a full locker room at this stage of his career.
As the Giants continue to evaluate candidates, the inclusion of both Saleh and Kubiak highlights a search that remains wide open. Whether the franchise leans toward proven leadership or offensive innovation will say a lot about how it plans to rebuildâand how quickly it believes contention can return.
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