Perry Fewell is out as the Giants defensive coordinator after 5 seasons that were sub par at best. Now begins the daunting task of finding a suitable replacement whom can not only restructure the Giants broken defense, but also recapture the spirit of a unit that once struck fear into the minds of opposing offenses. Here are a few candidates I feel are best fit for the job:
Raheem Morris - The former Buccaneers head coach and current defensive back coach for Washington has the tools, leadership, and success for the job. Under Morris, Tampa Bay had a secondary that was among the best in the league and that would surely benefit the Giants whose defensive backs and safeties have been burned for far too many big plays over the past 5 seasons.
Pepper Johnson - Johnson is a former Giants second round draft pick and played on two Superbowl winning teams (1986, 1990). With their tendency to have an affinity towards their own, it would make sense for the organization to leave the door open for him. It also helps that Johnson spent 13 season under Bill Bellichick and the ever consistent New England Patriots, aiding with keeping that team well tuned and in contention each year. Add that with being a teammate of Hall of Fame linebacker and Giants great Lawrence Taylor, and it should be more than enough to bring him aboard.
Mike Nolan - Nolan was once the Giants defensive coordinator under Dan Reeves from 93-96 and has a long history of coaching defenses. Though he may not have the pizzazz most fans want, his veteran know how would help him transition smoothly into the role. The one qualm that many will have with Nolan is that the defenses he coached were not the most successful and that there could be more of the same with the Giants. However, his voice and leadership would be gladly accepted after years of the old familiar sameness.
Steve Spagnuolo - In my opinion he is the most favored candidate for the position. In his two seasons as Giants defensive coordinator, Spagnuolo saw great success as the team lead the league in sacks during that span. He departed the team in 2009 for the head coaching vacancy in St. Louis, where that same aggressive style helped the Rams become a top ranked defense in the NFL. The Giants have struggled to get to the quarterback in the years since he left and things have only gone further down hill. A reunion with the coordinator who helped defeat the unbeaten New England Patriots in Superbowl XLII would be a no-brainer.
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