As the calendar flips to a new year, momentum is building around the New York Giants’ search for their next head coach — and one name is increasingly standing out as a potential top target.
Kevin Stefanski Emerging as a Favorite
Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski is not officially available, but that may change soon. NFL insider Jeremy Fowler recently reported that Cleveland has conducted “preliminary research” on potential replacements, fueling speculation that the Browns and Stefanski could ultimately agree to a mutual separation.
Stefanski, a two-time NFL Coach of the Year, is wrapping up his sixth season in Cleveland. Despite postseason appearances earlier in his tenure, the Browns have struggled recently, posting a 7–26 record over the past two seasons. During Stefanski’s time in Cleveland, the team has gone 44–56 overall with two playoff trips.
Jared Mueller of SB Nation’s Dawgs By Nature believes Stefanski’s future with the Browns is a coin flip, predicting a mutual parting of ways. Mueller described Stefanski as a strong coach who can occasionally be risk-averse but is widely respected around the league.
Fowler added that Stefanski could be the most attractive “retread” candidate available and labeled the Giants as an “ideal fit.” If Stefanski becomes available, he would instantly rise to the top of New York’s candidate list.
Stefanski’s background checks several important boxes for the Giants. He spent years coaching quarterbacks and coordinating offenses with the Minnesota Vikings, experience that would be crucial for developing Jaxson Dart. His head-coaching résumé and ability to manage dysfunction — something he navigated in Cleveland — could also be invaluable for a Giants organization seeking stronger culture and accountability.
Interestingly, Stefanski nearly landed in New York before. When the Giants hired Pat Shurmur in 2018, Shurmur attempted to bring Stefanski along as offensive coordinator, but Minnesota blocked the move.
Mike McCarthy Viewed as a Risky Option
Veteran head coach Mike McCarthy boasts the most accomplished résumé among currently available candidates. The 62-year-old owns a 174–112–2 career record, 12 playoff appearances, 11 seasons with double-digit wins, and a Super Bowl championship from his time with the Packers and Cowboys.
While McCarthy’s offensive background and quarterback experience could benefit Dart, not everyone sees him as the right choice. Dave Halprin of SB Nation’s Blogging The Boys cautioned that McCarthy’s tenure in Dallas failed to deliver on promises of modernization and analytics, while also pointing to locker-room tension and questionable in-game management.
ESPN’s Dan Graziano noted McCarthy may still draw interest around the league, but it remains unclear whether the Giants view him as a long-term solution or simply a fallback option.
Jeff Hafley Gaining Momentum
Another name generating buzz is Jeff Hafley, currently the Packers’ defensive coordinator. Fowler reported that Hafley has been frequently linked to the Giants in recent discussions and is expected to be on their interview list.
A New Jersey native, Hafley brings regional ties that could resonate with the Giants’ identity. He previously served as head coach at Boston College and has coached throughout the Northeast, including stops at Rutgers and UAlbany. His leadership reputation and familiarity with the area stand out to those who believe the Giants need to reconnect with their organizational roots.
The primary concern with Hafley centers on offense. While he is regarded as a strong leader, questions remain about whether he could assemble a staff capable of maximizing Dart’s development — a non-negotiable priority for the Giants’ next head coach.
The Big Picture
With uncertainty surrounding multiple candidates, the Giants appear open to a wide range of options — from proven head coaches to rising coordinators. But as speculation grows, Stefanski is emerging as the name to watch, particularly if Cleveland decides to move on.
For a franchise desperate for stability, credibility, and quarterback development, the next few weeks could define the Giants’ direction for years to come.
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