Giants hire Harbaugh as head coach, marking a new era after Daboll's firing

The New York Giants have hired John Harbaugh as their new head coach, signaling a shift in leadership after a tumultuous two-season stretch.

Why it matters: The Giants have struggled significantly in recent years, posting a 7-27 record over the past two seasons, and are seeking to revitalize their franchise culture under Harbaugh.

• Harbaugh's extensive experience, including an impressive 180-113 record during his 18 seasons with the Baltimore Ravens, positions him as a strong candidate to lead this transformation.
• His success includes winning a Super Bowl and consistently building competitive teams, which the Giants hope to emulate.

What’s new: The Giants announced Harbaugh’s hiring on Sunday, finalizing a five-year contract that reflects both the team’s commitment to improvement and Harbaugh’s reputation as a proven leader.

• Harbaugh expressed enthusiasm about joining the Giants, stating, “I’m proud and honored to be the head coach of this historic franchise... I can’t wait to get started with the great players on this football team.”

Yes, but: While Harbaugh brings a wealth of experience, he faces significant challenges in turning around a struggling organization.

• The transition from Brian Daboll, who was fired in November, and the interim leadership of Mike Kafka, means Harbaugh must quickly implement his vision while also navigating the existing dynamics within the locker room.

What to watch: Moving forward, it will be crucial to observe how Harbaugh integrates his coaching philosophy with the current roster and potential roster changes.

• The Giants have already begun making adjustments, having conducted interviews with several candidates before settling on Harbaugh, indicating a willingness to adapt and evolve.

The bottom line: The hiring of Harbaugh represents a strategic move for the Giants, aiming to leverage his track record of success in order to restore the franchise’s former glory.

• As he steps into this role, the expectations will be high, not just from management but also from a fan base eager for renewed competitiveness in the NFL landscape.

Between the lines: This hiring might signify a broader trend of experienced coaches being preferred over younger, less experienced candidates, reflecting teams' desires for stability and proven success in a challenging league.

• The Giants’ commitment to Harbaugh could set a precedent for other franchises looking to rebuild in the coming years.