The New York Giants continue to expand their head coaching search, and their latest move adds a seasoned defensive mind — and a different type of resume — to the mix.
According to NFL insider Adam Schefter, the Giants are set to interview Denver Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph this week, signaling that this process remains wide open and that experience, not just upside, is firmly on the table.
Why Vance Joseph Fits the Giants’ Defensive Identity
Joseph’s candidacy makes sense when viewed through the lens of the Giants’ current roster. Even in a down season, defense remained the unit most capable of keeping New York competitive, particularly in the trenches. Joseph’s recent work in Denver helped engineer a notable defensive rebound, turning an early-season liability into a group that consistently pressured quarterbacks and forced turnovers.
Over the last two seasons, Joseph’s Broncos have led the NFL in sacks. In 2024, Denver finished first in the league with 63 sacks, which set a franchise record. This season, the Broncos added five more sacks to that total, once again finishing first in the league, and the defense also finished third in points per game allowed at 18.3 PPG.
With Brian Burns coming off a career-best 16.5 sacks in 2025, the rest of the defensive line, including Kayvon Thibodeaux and Abdul Carter, could also benefit from an aggressive scheme that allows all of their pass rushers to do maximum damage.
His scheme emphasizes aggression, flexibility, and accountability — traits that align well with a Giants roster built around defensive line talent and young, developing playmakers in the secondary. For a team searching for a stabilizing force after multiple inconsistent seasons, Joseph represents a coach who could immediately raise the floor on one side of the ball.
The Giants’ willingness to explore a defense-first option also suggests they are not committed to one philosophical direction. While offensive innovation remains important in today’s NFL, New York appears intent on identifying a leader who can establish a clear identity and maximize what the roster already does best.
Experience, Evolution, and the Offensive Question
Joseph’s previous stint as a head coach in Denver (2017–18) will be a central part of his evaluation. He finished with an 11-21 record over those two years, but it has not defined his career. Around the league, Joseph is viewed as a coach who has grown significantly since then, refining his approach and rebuilding credibility through sustained coordinator success.
If Joseph advances, his plan for assembling an offensive staff underneath him could determine his viability as a finalist. The Giants need more than defensive competence; they need balance, development, and adaptability.
On the offensive side of the ball, Big Blue will need its coaches to continue developing Jaxson Dart as he enters his second year as the Giants’ starting QB. Joseph worked under offensive guru Sean Payton in Denver, which has likely influenced his offensive skills and game management.
A popular offensive coordinator hiring under Joseph would be former Giants quarterback Davis Webb, who is currently the offensive passing game coordinator/QBs coach in Denver. According to Broncos reporter Benjamin Allbright, Joseph and Webb should not be slept on, as his gut feeling tells him that it will be a defensive-minded coach with a strong offensive coordinator.
New York is prioritizing leadership, growth, and credibility over flash in this crucial hiring decision. By bringing Vance Joseph into the fold, the Giants are signaling that this search is about finding the right fit to reset the franchise — not just the trendiest name on the market.
Giants Add Veteran Defensive Coach to Head Coaching Search