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Michigan reportedly finalizing deal with next defensive coordinator
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Michigan is finalizing a deal to make longtime NFL assistant Wink Martindale its next defensive coordinator, according to a report.
That’s per ESPN’s Adam Schefter, who notes that a deal has not been finalized but Martindale is expected to succeed Jesse Minter as the Wolverines’ DC.
Martindale has been an assistant coach in the NFL for most of the last 20 years. Since 2010, he’s served as the defensive coordinator at various points with the Denver Broncos, Baltimore Ravens and, most recently, the New York Giants.
Michigan is planning to hire former Giants defensive coordinator Wink Martindale as its defensive coordinator, per sources. Deal still is being finalized but it is not expected to be an issue. Martindale will replace Jesse Minter, who became the Chargers defensive coordinator. pic.twitter.com/O0KhhAIkUQ
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) February 9, 2024
Martindale would be taking over for Minter, who left Michigan to be Jim Harbaugh’s defensive coordinator with the Los Angeles Chargers this offseason. Michigan’s defense has been a huge part of its success over the past couple of seasons and Martindale will be hoping to maintain that level of play during his tenure in Ann Arbor.
Michigan also reportedly considered hiring longtime NFL assistant coach Joe Cullen for the role. Martindale emerged as a possibility earlier this week.
New Michigan coach Sherrone Moore has been tasked with rebuilding the Wolverines’ coaching staff this offseason. Multiple assistant coaches have left for the NFL and other opportunities since Harbaugh’s departure. Moore and his new staff will also be dealing with a roster that ranks near the bottom of the country in returning production for 2024.
Michigan has not yet announced Martindale as its next defensive coordinator.
Spenser is the news manager at Saturday Road and covers college football across all Saturday Football brands.