Michigan DC Wink Martindale to interview with NFL teams this week

Michigan football’s defense was nearly impenetrable in the latter half of the 2024 season. However, defensive coordinator Wink Martindale might be headed back to the NFL as he’s scheduled to interview with the Atlanta Falcons and Indianapolis Colts this week, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero. The Cincinnati Bengals could reportedly have interest as well. 

Martindale is the highest-paid coordinator in college football.

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NFL teams show interest in Michigan DC Wink Martindale

Martindale has two decades of coaching experience in the NFL. In 2023 he won the Paul Zimmerman Award presented for lifetime achievement as an assistant coach in the league. His most recent stint came as defensive coordinator for the New York Giants (2022-23). 

Martindale’s most notable run in the NFL came with the Baltimore Ravens (2012-21). He coached under John Harbaugh and worked with linebackers for six seasons before taking over as defensive coordinator for four seasons. The Ravens had one of the best defenses in the league during his entire tenure, and Martindale coached players such as Elvis Dumervil, Ray Lewis and Terrell Suggs.

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