{"id":706185,"date":"2026-01-26T11:19:18","date_gmt":"2026-01-26T11:19:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nfl\/706185\/"},"modified":"2026-01-26T11:19:18","modified_gmt":"2026-01-26T11:19:18","slug":"9-things-to-know-about-new-dc","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nfl\/706185\/","title":{"rendered":"9 things to know about new DC"},"content":{"rendered":"

Jan. 25, 2026, 5:09 p.m. ET<\/p>\n

The New York Giants<\/a> are hiring Dennard Wilson as their new defensive coordinator, a move that pairs the rising 43-year-old assistant with head coach John Harbaugh for the second time.<\/p>\n

After working together in Baltimore in 2023, the duo reunites with a clear mission: Overhaul a Giants defense that has struggled in recent seasons.<\/p>\n

Wilson arrives fresh from a solid debut as the Titans\u2019 defensive coordinator, where his unit ranked mid-pack, and he carries a reputation for developing elite secondaries across stops with the Ravens, Eagles, and Jets.<\/p>\n

Here are nine things to know about Big Blue\u2019s incoming defensive leader.<\/p>\n

Maryland native with playing experience<\/p>\n

Wilson was born in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, and played college football as a safety at the University of Maryland. He earned honorable All-ACC honors as a senior and briefly joined the NFL as an undrafted free agent with Washington before an injury ended his playing days.<\/p>\n

Expert NFL picks: Exclusive betting insights only at USA TODAY.<\/a>Started career in scouting<\/p>\n

Before coaching, Wilson worked as a pro scout for the Chicago Bears from 2008 to 2011. This front-office experience gave him a strong foundation in player evaluation before transitioning to on-field coaching with the Rams.<\/p>\n

Developed stars with Jets<\/p>\n

As Jets’ defensive backs coach from 2017 to 2020, Wilson helped Jamal Adams become an All-Pro and Pro Bowler. Adams led NFL defensive backs in sacks and tackles for loss during that span under Wilson’s guidance.<\/p>\n

Contributed to Eagles’ pass defense<\/p>\n

Wilson served as Eagles’ defensive backs coach and pass game coordinator from 2021 to 2022. His units helped Philadelphia rank No. 1 in passing defense and No. 2 in total defense, with players like Darius Slay and James Bradberry earning Pro Bowl and All-Pro honors.<\/p>\n

Key role in Ravens’ dominant 2023 defense<\/p>\n

In 2023, Wilson was the Ravens’ defensive backs coach under head coach John Harbaugh. He coached Kyle Hamilton to All-Pro status while the Ravens led the NFL in points allowed, sacks, and takeaways.<\/p>\n

Direct connection to John Harbaugh<\/p>\n

Wilson worked directly under Harbaugh during his 2023 stint with the Ravens. This prior relationship makes him a trusted disciple, reuniting the pair to rebuild the Giants’ struggling defense.<\/p>\n

Strong first year as Titans DC<\/p>\n

In his debut as Titans defensive coordinator in 2024, Wilson led the unit to No. 2 rankings in total yards and passing yards allowed. The defense showed schematic discipline despite personnel limitations.<\/p>\n

Diverse coaching influences<\/p>\n

Wilson has learned under top defensive minds like Mike Macdonald, Jonathan Gannon, Gregg Williams, and Todd Bowles. This varied background gives him a versatile approach, blending aggressive techniques with strong player development.<\/p>\n

Zone-heavy defensive style<\/p>\n

Wilson’s schemes favor zone coverages like Cover 3 and Cover 4, with low-man coverage usage and moderate blitz rates. He emphasizes technique, teaching, and aggression, which could suit the Giants’ young secondary talent.<\/p>\n

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