The former Giants DC is a target for the Wolverines.
After Jesse Minter left to join the Los Angeles Chargers, Michigan’s DC is keeping an eye on former Giants defensive coordinator Wink Martindale, according to Matt Zenitz of 247Sports. Zenitz added that the Wolverines could also consider Joe Cullen, the defensive line coach for the Chiefs. This offseason, Sherman Moore, the new coach, is still adding coaches to his team.
Martindale worked for almost ten years in Baltimore, calling the defense and helping with linebackers under John Harbaugh. Sam Webb of The Michigan Insider reports that Moore is especially interested in the Ravens’ scheme. Martindale and Moore “have been engaging in informal talks since late last week, and things could escalate quickly between him and Michigan in the next couple days,” according to a TMI report on Tuesday.
But according to TMI, Moore’s main objective is still Cullen. Moore hopes to fill both of these significant roles as soon as possible, in addition to the Wolverines’ open general manager position.
Martindale would have to revamp one of the best defenses in college football after leading the team to its first national title in 25 years if he were hired. Minter departs Ann Arbor after serving as the defensive coordinator for the previous two seasons, during which he contributed to the team finishing in the top 10 nationally in terms of points allowed, total defense, and run defense.
Last fall, the Wolverines led the FBS in both total defense (247.0) and scoring defense (10.4). In the championship game earlier this month, Michigan players executed a near-perfect game plan designed by Minter, shutting down a formidable offensive force in Washington. Minter was a finalist for the Broyles Award, which is given to the top college football assistant coach each year.
In order to help on the defensive end of the ball, Michigan might try to sign Martindale and Cullen, who played together for three seasons with the Ravens.
Moore recently stated that by the end of next week, he hopes to have his staff in place.
Moore stated on The Pat McAfee Show, “We’ve got a few names and people in the boat to do that.” Additionally, we’re going to make an effort to hold onto the fantastic employees that we currently have. The staff is therefore beginning to take shape, little by little every day, and I believe that will be in place by the next week or so.”
Following Jim Harbaugh’s departure to the NFL, Michigan made Moore its next offensive line coach and offensive coordinator without much delay.
