When John Harbaugh took over as the coach of the New York Giants, many expected that he would keep a key component of his recent tenure with the Baltimore Ravens. What happened when he didn’t, and what impact could the change bring to his new franchise?
Giants HC John Harbaugh Discusses Matt Nagy’s Hire Over Todd Monken
After coaching the Baltimore Ravens for 18 seasons, Harbaugh was fired on January 6. Two weeks later, he accepted the job in New York.
The prevailing thought would be that Harbaugh would retain Monken as his offensive coordinator. Yet he chose former Chicago Bears head coach and Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator Matt Nagy to fill that role. Ian O’Connor from The Athletic details what the coach chose.
“He emerged with what appears to be an eclectic, high-quality support system, minus his slam-dunk choice as offensive coordinator, Todd Monken, who took the head-coaching job with the Cleveland Browns.”
Asked whether the consolation prize, Matt Nagy, could end up being the equal of Monken, Harbaugh said, ‘Of course. Of course. I expect Matt to be the best ever. I’m hoping he’ll be the best offensive coordinator to ever coach the game; that’s what we’re shooting for.'”
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The Browns hired Monken on January 28 to replace Kevin Stefanski as their new head coach. While under Harbaugh in Baltimore, Monken’s rushing offenses perennially ranked in the top ten, while the passing attack also succeeded.
According to PFSN’s NFL Offense Impact Rankings, the Ravens ranked no lower than No. 20 with Monken in control. Last season, the Ravens slid to No. 20, which many believe ultimately led to Harbaugh’s dismissal.
Nagy, like Harbaugh, is a disciple of Andy Reid. Under those circumstances, elements of Reid’s offense will reach New York. For example, Reid’s system uses elements of the West Coast offense. Meaning, the short passing game will be the centerpiece. However, Monken will take vertical shots if he feels the defense creeps up.
With Jaxson Dart at quarterback, Nagy will want to raise his completion percentage from 63.7%. Dart can move the pocket and connect on passes at three levels. However, with Patrick Mahomes’ versatility as his replacement, Nagy may want to adjust his approach.
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Similarly, limiting Dart’s rushing attempts should bode well for second-year back Cam Skattebo. Provided he is fully recovered from a dislocated ankle that ended his season prematurely.
On top of that, receivers Wan’Dale Robinson and Malik Nabers could provide an inside-out connection for Nagy. Robinson is the twitchy slot pass catcher, while Nabers can win over the top. Either way, the Giants’ offense could take advantage of the assembled young talent.
