Giants' Brian Daboll to keep Patrick Graham as defensive coordinator?

The New York Giants may not be as "new look" under general manager Joe Schoen and head coach Brian Daboll as some assumed. 

According to Jordan Raanan of ESPN, Daboll told reporters during his Monday introductory press conference he wants to keep Patrick Graham as his defensive coordinator if Graham doesn't receive an opportunity to serve as a head coach elsewhere. Graham interviewed with the Giants before they ultimately selected Daboll for the gig, and the 43-year-old recently met with the Minnesota Vikings. 

The Vikings, meanwhile, have been linked with Michigan Wolverines coach Jim Harbaugh and, per Raanan, currently aren't set to speak with Graham a second time. 

Graham and Daboll were both employed by the New England Patriots from 2013 through the 2015 season. 

"I've had a good relationship with Pat for some time in this league," Daboll explained. "Very diligent. He's smart. I think the players respect him. He understands different defenses, and I have a good working relationship with him. I did when I was back in New England."

Per ESPN stats, the New York defense finished the 2021 regular season ranked 21st overall, but much of that unit's struggles can be blamed on an inept offense that averaged a paltry 15.2 points per game under former head coach Joe Judge, who was dismissed earlier this month. As part of Monday's event, Giants co-owner John Mara called Graham "a terrific defensive coordinator" whom he wants to return. 

"For his own sake, I hope he gets a head-coaching job, but selfishly we'd be very happy if he stayed," Mara added.