The New York Giants are not in need of a defensive coordinator, but that won't stop them from adding another defensive-minded coach to their staff to get the most out of their players.
According to Paul Schwartz of The New York Post, the Giants are expressing interest in now-former New York Jets defensive coordinator Kacy Rodgers, whom they feel can be of significant help to linebacker Olivier Vernon.
Vernon and Rodgers spent three years together during their days with the Miami Dolphins, with Rodgers helping Vernon blossom into one of the top defensive ends in the league.
Vernon then ended up signing a five-year, $85 million contract with New York in March 2016 and had high praise for Rodgers at the time of his deal, saying that Rodgers taught him everything he knew.
There has been speculation that the Giants may cut Vernon this offseason to save some money, but this is an indication that New York has every intention of going forward with Vernon on its defense.
The 28-year-old was actually just named a Pro Bowl alternate, marking his first career trip to Honolulu. He is replacing Chicago Bears linebacker Khalil Mack, who withdrew with an ankle injury.
Vernon finished with 30 tackles, seven sacks, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery in his first year at linebacker in the Giants' new 3-4 system, as he had spent the previous six years of his career as a defensive end.
New York went just 5-11 this season and has made the playoffs just once since last winning the Super Bowl during the 2011-12 campaign.
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