Michigan is hiring former New York Giants defensive coordinator Don “Wink” Martindale for the same position, ESPN reported Friday. He replaces Jesse Minter, who left the national champion Wolverines to follow head coach Jim Harbaugh to the Los Angeles Chargers. Martindale, 60, spent the past two seasons with the Giants. They parted ways after a six-win campaign in 2023. Michigan operated a version of Martindale’s defense under bot
Michigan operated a version of Martindale’s defense under both Minter and former defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald, which should ease the transition for returning players under new head coach Sherrone Moore. Martindale has been coaching in the NFL since 2004, including stints as the defensive coordinator for the Denver Broncos (2010) and Baltimore Ravens (2018-21). His experience in the collegiate ranks includes serving as the DC at both Western Kentucky (2000-03) and Western Illinois (1999).
Addae joins the Buffalo Bills as cornerbacks coach, while Highsmith will fill a front office role with the new-look New England Patriots. Addae had a spotty record as a recruiter and clearly that’s not part of his role in the NFL.
Highsmith is rumored to have wanted more power in decision making at Miami, which is an uncommon request at the Power 5 level for anyone not named head coach.
Staff shake-ups are common in February after the dust clears from National Signing Day and prior to spring football starting typically in early March. Hurricanes head coach Mario Cristobal, hopefully, has a CB’s coach and GM already lined up like he seemingly had for the RB’s position- where Matt Merritt looks to move from USF over to Miami.
