Wink Martindale to interview for NFL defensive coordinator job, per report
Wink Martindale could be exploring a move back to the NFL.
According to a report from Jonathan Jones of CBS, Martindale is expected to interview for the Atlanta Falcons’ defensive coordinator job.
The Falcons are interviewing Michigan DC and longtime NFL coach Wink Martindale for their vacant defensive coordinator position, sources tell @NFLonCBS.
— Jonathan Jones (@jjones9) January 14, 2025
Martindale served as Michigan’s defensive coordinator during the 2024 campaign. Although the season didn’t go to plan for the Wolverines, it wasn’t because of production on the defensive side of the ball. Michigan allowed 4.86 yards per play this fall, which ranked 5th in the Big Ten.
However, Martindale’s roots are in the NFL. This was his first season at the collegiate level since 2000-03 when he served as Western Kentucky’s defensive coordinator and linebackers coach. For 2 decades in-between those collegiate stints, Martindale was an assistant at the NFL level.
Most notably, Martindale was the defensive coordinator for the Baltimore Ravens (2018-21) and the New York Giants (2022-23).
If Martindale does depart for the Falcons or another NFL defensive coordinator job, it would mean Michigan has to replace both coordinators from the 2024 season. The program already parted ways with offensive coordinator Kirk Campbell. Head coach Sherrone Moore has already hired Chip Lindsey to fill that vacancy.
There is no timetable for Martindale to make a final decision. He’s set to turn 62 years old later this offseason.
Attention Michigan residents! Interested in joining a new sportsbook this fall? Here’s all you need to know about Michigan online sports betting to help you get started!