Antonio Pierce is set for a homecoming at MetLife Stadium as the New York Giants begin their search for a new head coach following a dismal 2025 campaign.
The former Giants linebacker, who was a cornerstone of the Super Bowl XLII-winning defence, is reportedly among the leading candidates to interview for the vacancy left by the mid-season departure of Brian Daboll. ESPN's Jordan Raanan reports that General Manager Joe Schoen—who has been officially retained by ownership—is looking to Pierce to potentially restore the "winning culture" that defined his playing days in East Rutherford.
Pierce, 47, returns to the coaching market after a year out of the NFL. His previous stint as head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders ended in January 2025 following a disappointing 4-13 season. Despite galvanising the Raiders locker room as an interim in 2023—notably leading them to an upset win over the Kansas City Chiefs on Christmas Day—his full-time tenure was marred by a ten-game losing streak and offensive struggles.
He finished his time in Nevada with an overall record of 9-17, but supporters of his candidacy point to the "talent-deficient" roster he inherited and his natural leadership qualities as reasons for a second chance.
For the Giants ownership, Pierce represents a link to the franchise's glory years. Between 2005 and 2009, he was the "heart and brains" of a unit that never suffered a losing season. Co-owner John Mara has historically valued candidates with ties to the organization, and Pierce's familiarity with the New York media market is seen as a significant advantage.
The search for the franchise's next leader is expected to be extensive. In addition to Pierce, the Giants are reportedly looking at several high-profile names:
Mike McCarthy: The former Cowboys and Packers head coach offers the Super Bowl-winning experience the Giants have lacked since the Tom Coughlin era.
Chris Shula: The Rams' defensive coordinator and grandson of the legendary Don Shula is considered one of the league's brightest young minds.
Jeff Hafley: The Packers' defensive coordinator has deep New Jersey roots and ties to Mara's alma mater, Boston College.
Mike Kafka: The current Giants interim coach, who oversaw the final seven games of the 2025 season, may also be considered for the permanent role.
With the Giants officially holding the No. 5 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, the new hire will be tasked with the immediate development of 22-year-old quarterback Jaxson Dart and a young core that ownership believes is ready to compete.
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