John Harbaugh’s Ravens teams were synonymous with great defense for 18 years.

So, who is he going to tap to be Giants defensive coordinator?

Harbaugh has ties to many appealing candidates, a handful of whom also worked under former Giants defensive coordinator Wink Martindale, a fan favorite.

Martindale’s exit from the Ravens in 2022 had less to do with Harbaugh and more with others, but don’t expect him walking through the doors after his explosive exit following a spat with Brian Daboll in 2024.

Here are nine other candidates:

John Harbaugh Getty Images

Jim Leonhard, Broncos

The former Jets safety also was a member of Harbaugh’s initial Ravens team (2008). He was the defensive coordinator (2017-22) and interim head coach (2022) at Wisconsin before joining Sean Payton.

He serves as the Broncos pass game coordinator and assistant head coach.

Jets fans are clamoring for him to get a look for their vacancy, too.

Dennard Wilson, Titans

Wilson was at the top of Brian Daboll’s list for defensive coordinator in 2024, but he went to the Titans instead.

Dennard Wilson during a November 2025 game. Getty Images

He previously was with the Jets for four years, the Eagles for two and under Harbaugh in 2023. He came through the ranks as a defensive backs coach.

The Titans somehow ranked No. 2 in yards allowed but No. 30 in points allowed in 2024 before No. 21 and No. 28, respectively, in 2025.

Anthony Weaver, Dolphins

If he doesn’t land a head coach vacancy with the Ravens, Steelers or Falcons, his services will be in demand as a coordinator.

The former second-round pick out of Notre Dame has been an NFL assistant since 2012 and was Harbaugh’s assistant head coach in 2022 and 2023. He preaches stripping the ball on tackles.

Zach Orr, Ravens

Is it possible Harbaugh could just get the full Baltimore band back together with Todd Monken on offense and Orr on defense?

Orr played for Harbaugh from 2014-16 and has been on his staff every year since 2017 except for 2021, including the last two as the play-caller. The 2024 Ravens led the NFL in rushing defense — long the Giants’ biggest issue on that side of the ball.

Drew Wilkins, Rams

Wilkins, a Martindale protégé, was the Giants outside linebackers coach in 2022-23 during the drafting of Kayvon Thibodeaux.

He has been in that role with the Patriots and Rams since. But would he be a candidate to join Rams defensive coordinator Chris Shula’s staff if he becomes a head coach, or even to replace Shula?

Joe Cullen, Chiefs

The longtime NFL defensive line coach had a one-year stint as defensive coordinator for the Jaguars after five seasons as Harbaugh’s position coach.

He has been with the Chiefs since 2022, overseeing the development of George Karlaftis and other young pieces around All-Pro Chris Jones. The Giants could get Steve Spagnuolo’s input easily.

Charlie Bullen, Giants

There are no ties between Harbaugh and Bullen, but he is highly regarded in-house for the job he did simplifying things and increasing aggressiveness as a five-game interim play-caller at the end of the season.

Could Charlie Bullen stay on as the Giants’ defensive coordinator? Corey Sipkin for the NY POST

The Cowboys have requested a defensive coordinator interview with Bullen, who remains under contract. And he is closely tied to head-coach candidate Vance Joseph.

Antonio Pierce

The Giants’ great was out of the NFL in 2025 and around East Rutherford a lot after he was fired as Raiders head coach.

He interviewed for the head coach vacancy.

Antonio Pierce AP

He has never called plays in the NFL before but did so at Arizona State.

Linebackers coach might be a better fit, if he is open to it.