John Harbaugh, renowned for his preference for seasoned offensive coordinators, is considering Kliff Kingsbury and Brian Callahan as potential candidates for his new coaching staff with the Giants. This decision aligns with Harbaugh’s history of selecting coaches with experience and successful NFL backgrounds, a strategy shaped by his 18 years leading the Ravens.
Kingsbury, 46, has an impressive track record, having previously implemented his Air Raid offense at Texas Tech, notably with star quarterback Patrick Mahomes. This success propelled him to the head coaching position with the Arizona Cardinals, and most recently, he served as the offensive coordinator for the Washington Commanders. Under his guidance, rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels achieved remarkable success in the 2024 season, though Kingsbury’s tenure ended after a disappointing record of 5-12 in 2025 prompted a coaching change.
On the other hand, Brian Callahan, 41, has also held head coaching duties in the NFL, albeit with a challenging record of 3-14 in 2024 with the Tennessee Titans before being dismissed after a rough start in the following season. Callahan made his mark as the Bengals’ offensive coordinator, where he garnered respect for his strategic approach. He comes from a strong football lineage as the son of Bill Callahan, an established NFL coach and offensive line expert currently with the Atlanta Falcons.
Harbaugh is approaching this crucial decision thoughtfully, having also engaged in discussions with other candidates, including Colts offensive coordinator Jim Bob Cooter and Broncos passing game coordinator Davis Webb. Notably, Webb and Tanney have both served as backup quarterbacks for the Giants, which provides additional insights into the organization’s needs.
Harbaugh’s previous choices, such as Cam Cameron, Greg Roman, and Todd Monken, demonstrate his inclination towards coordinators who have either held head coaching roles or have a robust play-calling background. This methodical approach reflects his commitment to ensuring the best fit for his coaching philosophy as he assembles a promising staff for the Giants. With many experienced candidates under consideration, the future looks bright for the Giants, with a focus on building a competitive and successful team.