3 options for Michigan football if Wink Martindale leaves for NFL
With Wink Martindale’s aggressive defensive philosophy and NFL-style pressure schemes, Michigan has maintained a dominant defensive presence. However, if Martindale were to leave for an NFL opportunity, such as the Saints, the Wolverines would need to find a new defensive coordinator who can sustain their defensive identity.
There is a chance that Michigan football could lose defensive coordinator Wink Martindale to the NFL. The Bengals, Colts, and Falcons passed, but if the Saints hire Mike Kafka, a coach that Wink is close to, the Wolverines could need a new defensive coordinator.
Sherrone Moore (If He Wants More Control Over the Defense)
This might be seen as an unconventional option, but in today’s coaching landscape, it isn’t unusual for a head coach to take a more hands-on approach to one side of the ball. Kirby Smart has done it at Georgia with his defense, and Jim Harbaugh took a similar approach with Michigan’s offense during his tenure.
Moore, who has already established himself as an elite offensive mind, could decide that the best way to maintain defensive excellence is to take a more direct role in overseeing the defensive side of the ball. He wouldn’t call plays, but he could bring in a rising assistant as a co-coordinator, allowing him to have a strong influence over the defensive philosophy.
A potential name to pair with Moore in a co-coordinator role? Someone like Taver Johnson, the current Philadelphia Eagles defensive backs coach. He is a well-respected defensive mind and could be brought in to call plays while Moore provides overall defensive oversight.
