The New York Giants are broadening their coaching search, emphasizing a commitment to building a strong defensive framework within their organization. Recently, the team formally requested an interview with Chris Shula, a defensive coach from the Los Angeles Rams, as reported by Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer. This latest move adds another notable candidate to a coaching pursuit that seeks to merge innovative strategies with traditional stability.
Shula’s rise within the Rams organization reflects both his effectiveness and the increasing demand for coaches who successfully integrate modern defensive tactics with a firm cultural foundation. Under Shula’s leadership over the past two seasons, the Rams have transformed into one of the top defensive units in the league despite facing significant challenges, including the retirement of legendary player Aaron Donald.
In 2024, Shula’s defense ranked highly in various efficiency metrics, tying for fifth in red zone efficiency at 50% and finishing sixth in goal-to-go efficiency. The Rams also boasted a 35.7% pressure rate, which placed them 10th in the league, and they recorded 13 interceptions throughout the season. Notably, the Rams held opponents to an average of just 20.4 points per game — the 10th best in the NFL — while limiting them to 322.0 yards per game, ranking 15th overall. The team excelled in stopping the run as well, achieving a commendable sixth-best Rushing DVOA at -16%.
For the Giants, who have shown defensive potential but also consistent inconsistency, Shula represents a methodical approach focused on teaching and process rather than immediate flashy results. The Rams’ defensive philosophy is marked by discipline, assignment soundness, and adaptability against evolving offensive strategies. This aligns closely with the vision that the Giants have expressed for their own defensive restructuring.
The previous season saw the Giants struggling significantly, ranking 25th in points allowed per game, 28th in yards allowed, and poor performance metrics overall, including a last-place ranking in yards per rush allowed (5.3) and over 145 rushing yards given up per game. These struggles continue to highlight the need for a comprehensive defensive overhaul.
Moreover, Shula’s proficiency in developing young talent makes him an attractive candidate for the Giants, whose roster includes promising players such as Brian Burns, Kayvon Thibodeaux, Abdul Carter, and Dexter Lawrence. As the team looks to improve its defensive strategies, Shula’s experience could facilitate a significant turnaround for the Giants, particularly after a lackluster performance in 2025. If the team proceeds to hire Shula, they may very well be on the track to reclaiming their defensive prowess in the coming years.