Don "Wink" Martindale has long been a well-respected coach in the NFL ranks. His aggressive play-calling and unique perspectives for defense garnered plenty of fans around the league.
He was the defensive coordinator for the New York Giants last season, until the two sides broke up after a losing campaign.
“I’m glad I’m here, I love the players we have … It’s a lot better than being in some places that are 2-7.”
It does not take a rocket scientist to know he is talking about the Giants. They've had a rough season, and there have been plenty of concerns regarding the long-term outlook of HC Brian Daboll and GM Joe Schoen.
The relationship between Daboll and Martindale had its ups and downs, but the rollercoaster crashed during last season.
After Week 18, the Giants fired a handful of assistant coaches. They fired special teams coordinator Thomas McGaughey and offensive line coach Bobby Johnson to begin their moves.
Then, just hours later, it was announced that they were moving on from outside linebackers coach Drew Wilkins and his brother, defensive assistant Kevin Wilkins. Both of them had strong relationships with defensive coordinator Martindale after their time in Baltimore.
There was clear dysfunction and frustration between the two. Martindale planned to resign from his role with the Giants after the season, but it was labeled as a "mutual decision" from the coach and organization.
Now, Martindale is an assistant for the Michigan Wolverines. They are 5-4 so far this season, also a disappointing record for the reigning national champions in college football.
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