Wolverines’ DC Wink Martindale Set to Shake Up NFL: Interviews with Falcons, Colts, and More

Wink Martindale, Michigan’s defensive coordinator, is reportedly eyeing a return to the NFL. The veteran coach, who joined the Wolverines in 2024 after a 20-year NFL career, is said to be interviewing with the Atlanta Falcons for their defensive coordinator vacancy, according to a report from Jonathan Jones on Tuesday. Tom Pelissero later confirmed that Martindale is also set to interview with the Indianapolis Colts, with the Cincinnati Bengals potentially expressing interest.

Martindale, 61, capped the 2024 season with Michigan by orchestrating a stellar defensive performance. The Wolverines upset both Ohio State and Alabama, ranking 11th in total defense, fifth in rushing defense, and 19th in scoring defense despite navigating the fourth-hardest schedule in the country, according to FPI.

Before his time in Ann Arbor, Martindale served as defensive coordinator for the New York Giants from 2022-23 and spent nearly a decade with the Baltimore Ravens (2012-21). During his tenure in Baltimore, he led the defense to top-10 finishes in total defense for three consecutive seasons and mentored future defensive minds like Michigan’s previous coordinators Mike Macdonald and Jesse Minter.

While his NFL defenses struggled in his final seasons, Martindale remains highly respected for his innovative schemes. His influence extends to a coaching “tree” that has produced notable defensive coordinators, including Macdonald, Minter, D’Anton Lynn (USC), and Zach Orr (Baltimore).

The Wolverines showed significant defensive improvement under Martindale’s leadership, allowing only two touchdowns while forcing seven turnovers in their final three games:

• Northwestern: 127 yards allowed, 2 interceptions, 6 points surrendered
• Ohio State: 252 yards, 2 interceptions, 10 points surrendered
• Alabama: 260 yards, 3 turnovers, 13 points surrendered

This late-season dominance helped Michigan secure major victories, including holding top opponents to a mere two touchdown drives totaling just 18 yards.

Martindale’s college coaching career includes stops at Western Kentucky, Western Illinois, Cincinnati, and Notre Dame, among others. Hired by Michigan head coach Sherrone Moore in March 2024, Martindale quickly became one of the highest-paid assistants in college football. His buyout for an NFL departure is set at $350,000.

With an impressive résumé and renewed NFL interest, Martindale is reportedly weighing his options as the offseason unfolds.