The New York Giants’ Brian Daboll remains among the most maligned head coaches in the NFL, and that notion only grew stronger on Sunday. Big Blue was routed 34-24 at home against the San Francisco 49ers, allowing four straight scoring drives during the first three quarters, including both of Mac Jones’ touchdown passes. This loss dropped the franchise to a division-worst 2-7 and raised further doubts about their head coach’s staying power.
Should ownership decide to seek a new direction, here are some candidates to consider as potential replacements for Brian Daboll.
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## Top 5 Potential Brian Daboll Replacements as Giants Head Coach
### 5) Wes Phillips
Wes Phillips has earned a reputation as a reliable, if sometimes conservative, offensive coordinator throughout his coaching career. As Kevin O’Connell’s offensive deputy in Minnesota, he was part of the continued success of quarterback Kirk Cousins. However, his most impressive achievement might be turning around Sam Darnold’s career.
Darnold, a 2018 draft pick previously considered a bust due to mismanagement with the New York Jets, posted career-best numbers under Phillips’ system with the Vikings. Now, imagine Jaxson Dart working within that same framework. The potential payoff could be massive.
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### 4) Jeff Hafley
Jeff Hafley has played a key role in keeping the Green Bay Packers competitive in the post-Aaron Rodgers era. His defensive philosophy stands apart from previous regimes, shifting from a base 3-4 defense to a base 4-3 that emphasizes speedy yet suffocating defensive line play.
Currently, the Giants operate a base 3-4 but have experience running the 4-3 under former head coach and two-time Super Bowl champion Steve Spagnuolo. Hafley would have an intriguing core to work with in Dexter Lawrence, Brian Burns, Kayvon Thibodeaux, and Abdul Carter. The days of Reggie White would seem tame compared to what Hafley could do with this defensive group.
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### 3) Joe Lombardi
Joe Lombardi is a straightforward, no-nonsense coach. His first year with the Denver Broncos was challenged by an underperforming veteran quarterback, Russell Wilson, who struggled to adapt to Sean Payton’s system. However, Bo Nix flourished under Lombardi’s guidance.
The Broncos returned to the playoffs in 2024 for the first time since Peyton Manning’s retirement, despite lacking a strong running game. In 2025, the team’s ground attack improved substantially, with JK Dobbins thriving and wide receivers Troy Franklin and Marvin Mims providing solid support.
The Giants are currently more run-oriented with Cam Skattebo and Tyrone Tracy. Once Malik Nabers returns and finds his footing, Jaxson Dart could have a potent offense to unleash — with Lombardi leading the way.
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### 2) Rex Ryan
Rex Ryan represents the so-called “nuclear option” for the Giants — a familiar and bold candidate who coached their intracity rivals, the New York Jets. At 62, Ryan believes he still deserves a shot to coach again.
Known for his bombastic personality and aggressive approach, Ryan is unafraid to take risks — something the Giants could use after years of relative blandness under Brian Daboll. His defenses were once feared, led by the legendary “Revis Island.” The Giants have a similarly strong defensive core now; all they need is an elite defensive back to elevate their unit.
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### 1) Greg Roman
Greg Roman is known for offensive schemes centered around power running. The Giants boast two promising running back prospects in Tyrone Tracy and Cam Skattebo, along with a moderately mobile quarterback in Jaxson Dart.
While the offensive line remains a concern and may require improvement, they already have some decent pieces, such as tackle Andrew Thomas. If the Giants can shore up the interior line, they will have a formidable unit that could put the NFC East on notice.
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The Giants’ 2023 struggles have intensified scrutiny on Brian Daboll, and these candidates present a variety of philosophies and approaches that could reshape the franchise’s future. Whether prioritizing offense, defense, or a balanced approach, there are intriguing options available if ownership decides to make a change.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/nfl/brian-daboll-replacements-5-best-candidates-giants-fire-hc-embarrassing-loss-49ers-ft-joe-lombardi
