In a surprising development, Wink Martindale has resigned as the New York Giants' defensive coordinator after just two seasons with the team. The departure, which was handled poorly by both Martindale and the Giants, now leaves the organization in need of a new defensive coordinator for the second time in three years.

General manager Joe Schoen and head coach Brian Daboll are wasting no time in initiating the search for Martindale's replacement. While some potential candidates are currently employed with other teams, termination or resignation from their current positions would be necessary for them to join the Giants.

One likely candidate for consideration is Leslie Frazier, who has a history with Daboll dating back to their time together in Buffalo. Frazier, who served as the Bills' defensive coordinator while Daboll was the offensive coordinator, has a strong mutual respect with Daboll, making it highly likely that he will receive an interview.

Another intriguing name to watch is Antonio Pierce, who may become available if he is not hired as the full-time head coach in Las Vegas. Although he has ties to the Raiders, Pierce's past with the Giants could make coaching their defense an appealing opportunity for him.

The Giants also have potential in-house options to consider. Jerome Henderson, the team's current defensive backs coach, is highly respected and has nearly two decades of experience as an assistant. Likewise, defensive line coach Andre Patterson commands respect in the locker room and has prior experience as a co-defensive coordinator with the Minnesota Vikings.

One familiar face who could make a return is Patrick Graham, despite his less-than-ideal departure from the Giants. Graham has a history with Daboll and was Daboll's initial choice for defensive coordinator before ultimately joining the Raiders. A reunion between Graham and the Giants could be a possibility.

Although not a popular choice among Giants fans, Matt Patricia, who has a previous history with Daboll, cannot be completely ruled out. Patricia's stint with the Detroit Lions and recent failures with the Patriots may cast doubt on his suitability, but an interview with the Giants cannot be discounted.

Sean Desai, Kris Richard, Jim Leonhard, Al Holcomb, and Ron Rivera are also mentioned as potential candidates. Desai's reputation took a hit following a challenging season with the Philadelphia Eagles, while Richard brings a wealth of experience as a former defensive coordinator for the Seattle Seahawks and New Orleans Saints. Leonhard, although lacking NFL coaching experience, garnered interest from several teams last season. Holcomb and Daboll have worked in similar circles, which could make him a candidate worth considering. The possibility of Rivera, a former NFC East coach and two-time Coach of the Year, joining the Giants should not be completely dismissed.

As the Giants begin their search for a new defensive coordinator, the hope is to find a candidate who can bring stability and success to the team's defensive unit. With multiple potential candidates from both inside and outside of the organization, the Giants will have plenty of options to explore in the coming weeks.