Giants coaching candidates: Browns' Kevin Stefanski among names to watch after Brian Daboll's firing

There’s a benefit to the Giants making this move now: They can start their search for Brian Daboll’s replacement immediately.

No waiting until the end of the season. No political hoops to jump through while a lame-duck coach is still on staff.

The Giants can do what only the Titans can at the moment -- begin prep to make a full-court press for their next coach.

And who might that be? Here are eight names to watch this cycle:

Aug 23, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski during the first half against the Los Angeles Rams at Huntington Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
Aug 23, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski during the first half against the Los Angeles Rams at Huntington Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images / © Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

Kevin Stefanski, Browns head coach

The two-time NFL Coach of the Year will be in extremely high demand if Cleveland lets him go. He’s had significant success despite being hamstrung by decisions that he likely didn’t control (Deshaun Watson). Considering the quarterback roulette that Kevin Stefanski has dealt with over the past couple years, he might jump at the chance to work with Jaxson Dart.

Jeff Hafley, Packers defensive coordinator

The Mara family has an affinity for Boston College alums, and Jeff Hafley served as the school’s head coach from 2020-23 before taking over Green Bay’s defense in 2024. He’s also a Montvale, N.J., native.

Mike LaFleur, Rams offensive coordinator

The younger brother of Matt LaFleur spent the early part of his career learning under Kyle Shanahan with the 49ers. Mike LaFleur served as the Jets’ offensive coordinator from 2021–22 before ownership forced his removal after he failed to develop Zach Wilson. He’s spent the last three years with Sean McVay in Los Angeles, where quarterback Matthew Stafford is receiving MVP consideration.

Kevin Patullo, Eagles offensive coordinator

It was a slow start to the season, but Kevin Patullo has steadied one of the league’s most potent offenses. It wouldn’t be the worst thing for the Giants to poach from a division rival.

Nov 2, 2025; Orchard Park, New York, USA; Kansas City Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo reacts from the sideline during the second half against the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-Imagn Images
Nov 2, 2025; Orchard Park, New York, USA; Kansas City Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo reacts from the sideline during the second half against the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-Imagn Images / © Mark Konezny-Imagn Images

Steve Spagnuolo, Chiefs defensive coordinator

Steve Spagnuolo is one of the game’s best defensive minds and a Giants legend for his work in their Super Bowl XLII win over the previously unbeaten Patriots. The concern: his track record as a head coach. He struggled with the Rams (2009–11) and went 1–3 as the Giants’ interim coach in 2017.

Brian Flores, Vikings defensive coordinator

Brian Flores was a finalist for multiple jobs in the last cycle. The concern here is his fractured relationship with Tua Tagovailoa in Miami. Flores may be better suited for a veteran quarterback room.

Antonio Pierce, CBS Sports analyst

His name will surface often. Antonio Pierce won Super Bowl XLII while with the Giants (2005-09) and has spent time around the team this season. He had a successful interim run with the Raiders in 2023 but faltered in 2024, which was his lone full season as head coach.

Matt Burke, Texans defensive coordinator

DeMeco Ryans receives most of the credit, but Burke oversees the league’s top statistical defense.

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