The New York Giants are seeking their fifth head coach in nine years after firing Brian Daboll on Monday following a 2-8 start to the 2025 season, which contributed to a three-year run of 11-33 in his last 44 games.
General manager Joe Schoen will lead the search for the next head coach despite building teams with poor records since 2023.
Many potential candidates will be interested in the position. Jaxson Dart appears promising, leading a team with young talent like edge rusher Abdul Carter, running back Cam Skattebo, wide receiver Malik Nabers, and tight end Theo Johnson. The defense also features playmakers like Brian Burns, Dexter Lawrence, and Kayvon Thibodeaux.
There will be sufficient cap space next offseason, and owners John Mara and Steve Tisch have shown patience with previous coaches. Daboll’s return after a 3-14 season was unexpected.
Here are 10 early candidates for the Giants’ head-coaching job:
Bill Belichick: Head coach, University of North Carolina
A six-time Super Bowl winner with the Patriots, Belichick is already one of the greatest NFL coaches. He has ties to the Giants, having worked there from 1979-1990, winning two Super Bowls. At 74, he has expressed love for the Giants, and returning to the Meadowlands would be significant.
Mike Kafka: Interim head coach, New York Giants
The 38-year-old offensive coordinator will stabilize the Giants as Schoen searches for a head coach. Kafka has a chance to secure the role permanently with improvements. He has been considered for head coach positions, having interviewed with the Saints and Titans, and attracting interest from the Seahawks.
Lane Kiffin: Head coach, Ole Miss
If Kiffin seeks an NFL head-coaching job again, the Giants could be a good fit. He developed Dart into a first-round pick, which might benefit the Giants’ offense. However, big offers from colleges and concerns over his 5-15 record with the Raiders in 2007-2008 might be obstacles.
Kliff Kingsbury: Offensive coordinator, Washington Commanders
Kingsbury’s offensive skills earned him the Cardinals’ head-coach role from 2019-2022. Now, he’s aiming for another NFL head-coaching job with his work at the Commanders. He has helped develop Jayden Daniels as a top quarterback, and could achieve similar success with Dart.
Klint Kubiak: Offensive coordinator, Seattle Seahawks
Kubiak’s name will be prominent in head-coaching rumors after turning the Seahawks’ offense into a powerhouse. The 38-year-old has helped transform Sam Darnold into an MVP contender. With nine games, Darnold has impressive stats, and Jaxon Smith-Njigba is having a standout season. Kubiak could achieve similar results with Dart and Nabers.
Mike McCarthy
The former Packers and Cowboys head coach has led successful offenses for 20 years, winning a Super Bowl with Aaron Rodgers. His playoff appearances are numerous but not always successful. Despite this, he would be an upgrade for a Giants team with only one playoff appearance in eight years.
Antonio Pierce: CBS Sports analyst
The former Giants linebacker and Super Bowl champion seemed poised for NFL head-coaching roles after going 5-4 with the Raiders as interim head coach in 2023. However, a 4-13 record in his full-time return led to his departure. Pierce is still valued by the Giants, and his player-first approach could improve the team’s culture.
Steve Spagnuolo: Defensive coordinator, Kansas City Chiefs
While Dart’s development is critical, the Giants’ defense has key players to build around, and the team is known for strong defenses. Spagnuolo, a Super Bowl winner with the Giants, served as interim head coach in 2017. He is highly regarded for defensive coordination with the Chiefs, and his connection to the Mara family makes him a strong candidate.
Mike Tomlin: Head coach, Pittsburgh Steelers
Tomlin may need change after 19 years with the Steelers. He hasn’t won a playoff game since 2016, yet keeps his team competitive. The Steelers have had no losing seasons with him since 2007. His job security is uncertain, making him an attractive prospect for the Giants.
Kevin Stefanski: Head coach, Cleveland Browns
Stefanski’s time in Cleveland seems limited, despite issues at quarterback. He’s a two-time NFL Coach of the Year, leading the Browns to two 11-win seasons. Success with the Browns suggests greater achievements elsewhere.
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