The New York Giants are expanding their head coaching search, and their latest move signals a clear emphasis on defensive structure and organizational lineage. According to a report from Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated, the team has formally requested an interview with Los Angeles Rams defensive coach Chris Shula, adding another intriguing name to a process that continues to balance innovation with stability.
Shula’s emergence as a legitimate head coaching candidate reflects both his rapid rise within the Rams’ system and the growing league-wide appeal of coaches who blend modern defensive concepts with strong cultural grounding.
Rams Defense Playing at Elite Level
Chris Shula turned the Los Angeles defense into one of the top defenses in the league in just two seasons. The defense went through a transition following the retirement of NFL legend Aaron Donald, but it did not stop Shula from leading one of the most efficient defenses.
In 2024, Shula’s unit finished tied for fifth in red zone efficiency (50%) and sixth in goal-to-go efficiency. His defense was also 10th in red zone efficiency (50%) and sixth in goal-to-go efficiency. The Rams also ranked 10th in pressure rate at 35.7% and recorded 13 interceptions.
This season, Los Angeles held opponents to just 20.4 points per game (10th in the NFL) and allowed just 322.0 yards per game (15th). Even more impressively, the Rams boasted the 6th-best Rushing DVOA in the league at -16%.
Overall, Shula’s unit ranked 3rd in the NFL in defensive DVOA (-13.8%). This metric stands for Defense-Adjusted Value Over Average and is a comprehensive evaluation tool that takes into account every play during the NFL season and compares it to a league-average baseline. It measures plays by down and distance and weighs plays accordingly to the situation.
Shula Can Help Turn Around Giants’ Defense
Shula has been a key figure in Sean McVay’s staff, working closely with one of the league’s most adaptable defensive units. His responsibilities have extended beyond position coaching, encompassing game planning, situational defense, and week-to-week adjustments — areas in which the Giants have struggled during recent seasons.
For a Giants team that has shown flashes defensively but lacked consistency, Shula represents a bet on process and teaching rather than splash. The Rams’ defensive identity — disciplined, assignment-sound, and flexible against modern offenses — aligns with what New York has openly stated it wants to become.
This past season, the Giants ranked 25th in points per game allowed, 28th in yards per game allowed, and 27th in yards per play, as well as points per play allowed. Even more jarring is that Big Blue ranked dead last in the NFL by allowing 5.3 yards per rush while allowing over 145 yards per game on the ground, second worst in the league. This is despite Shane Bowen utilizing a more run-heavy approach as opposed to the blitz-happy Wink Martindale.
There’s also familiarity with handling young players. Shula’s background in developing defensive talent aligns with the Giants’ roster, which continues to rely heavily on growth from within. Big Blue has a talented defensive nucleus, including a prominent defensive line in Brian Burns, Kayvon Thibodeaux, Abdul Carter, and Dexter Lawrence.
Behind them, an expensive secondary led by Paulson Adebo and Jevon Holland struggled to stay on the field and perform to their expected levels. After the defense underperformed in 2025, Shula can help them get back to their usual high-performing standards in 2026 if he is hired.
Giants Request Interview With Top Defensive Coordinator