The New York Giants have officially entered the John Harbaugh era, but the most revealing moves may come after the introductory press conference. While Harbaugh’s arrival signals stability, the early decisions surrounding his coaching staff offer the clearest clues about how the franchise plans to reshape its on-field identity.
John Harbaugh Begins Building His Giants Coaching Blueprint
Giants insider Connor Hughes provided early insight into how Harbaugh plans to construct his staff, suggesting that familiarity and proven working relationships are at the center of the strategy. In a tweet, Hughes wrote:
The #Giants are “confident” things will work out with Todd Monken as their offensive coordinator under John Harbaugh, I’m told.
They are still going through the process, though, per sources.
Defensively, Anthony Weaver believed to be the favorite at the moment, per sources.…
— Connor Hughes (@Connor_J_Hughes) January 20, 2026
“The #Giants are ‘confident’ things will work out with Todd Monken as their offensive coordinator under John Harbaugh, I’m told. They are still going through the process, though, per sources. Defensively, Anthony Weaver believed to be the favorite at the moment, per sources. Zach Orr another name I’ve heard.”
Harbaugh was officially introduced as the Giants’ head coach on Jan. 20 in East Rutherford, New Jersey, after the hiring became official on Jan. 17. ESPN’s Adam Schefter first reported the agreement, detailing how negotiations began late on Jan. 14 following Harbaugh’s dismissal from the Baltimore Ravens on Jan. 6.
According to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, Harbaugh’s five-year deal is expected to approach $100 million in total value, underscoring the organization’s long-term commitment. The Giants also announced they would stream Harbaugh’s introductory press conference live, with team president John Mara emphasizing confidence in the process.
“Through numerous conversations, John consistently stood out for his conviction and vision for leading a winning organization,” Mara said. Offensively, Todd Monken’s potential arrival carries added context. Data from PFSN’s Offense Impact Metric shows the league-wide average offense scored 74.2 overall.
The Giants’ offense, however, posted a 70.7 score in 2025, ranking 24th and earning a C-minus grade. The team also placed 24th in season rank and 578th overall, highlighting the need for improvement on that side of the ball.
Monken’s background helps explain the Giants’ interest. His coaching career spans college and the NFL, with stops including the Jacksonville Jaguars, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Cleveland Browns, University of Georgia, and, most recently, the Baltimore Ravens, where he signed an extension following the 2024 season.
In 2025, the Ravens ranked 16th in total yards, 11th in points, second in rushing yards, and 27th in passing yards. Those mixed results reflect both upside and areas the Giants may believe can be refined.
Defensively, Hughes reports that Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver is viewed as the current favorite, with Ravens defensive coordinator Zach Orr also under consideration. Weaver’s path from former Ravens player to NFL defensive coordinator mirrors Harbaugh’s Baltimore roots and suggests philosophical continuity.
Taken together, the early reporting suggests that Harbaugh favors trusted voices as he reshapes the Giants’ coaching staff. With measurable offensive shortcomings and multiple candidates still in play, the coming decisions may ultimately define how quickly Harbaugh’s vision takes hold of the Giants.
