The most well-known casualty of the New York Giants coaching staff shuffle was defensive coordinator Don “Wink” Martindale, who quit on Monday, January 8. An uncomfortable relationship with head coach Brian Daboll—who would consider former “counterpart” Leslie Frazier the “best choice” to succeed the departing play-caller—had long been a factor in Martindale’s exit rumors.

Between 2018 and 22, Frazier and Daboll co-coached the Buffalo Bills for four seasons. Ryan Dunleavy of the New York Post first mentioned Frazier as a “top replacement” for Martindale on Saturday, January 6.

“The Bills annually had top defenses under Frazier, who auditioned for the Giants’ head-coaching opening when Daboll got the job,” writes Dan Duggan of The Athletic, indicating that the Giants already respect Frazier. Frazier even went to a Giants practice in the spring, demonstrating his strong bond with Daboll.

The rumors that Frazier, who missed the 2023 season, will return will probably intensify now that Martindale has decided to go. Although he was a well-liked coach and accomplished some admirable things with the Giants defense, a rift with Daboll was unavoidable.

ESPN’s Jordan Raanan confirmed Martindale’s departure. One of the main reasons for the divorce, according to him, was Martindale’s broken “relationship with Brian Daboll.”

Daboll would be wise to return to a coach he knows, as he needs a more gregarious staff to assist in rebuilding a 6-11 club. Since Frazier, 64, is one of the most seasoned and well-respected defensive minds in the NFL, landing him would also be a little victory for the Giants.