TLDR: Wink Martindale embarks on his first season as Michigan’s Defensive Coordinator, bringing over two decades of NFL experience. His appointment follows an impressive career, notably with the New York Giants, Baltimore Ravens, Denver Broncos, and Oakland Raiders. Throughout his tenure, Martindale’s coaching has been instrumental in player successes, contributing to 22 Pro Bowl and 10 All-Pro accolades. His contributions helped his teams secure playoff spots, including a Super Bowl win with the Ravens. At Michigan, Martindale is expected to utilize his extensive experience to strengthen the Wolverines’ defense, taking up the role vacated by his predecessor. His signature defense strategies have set benchmarks in points allowed and defensive touchdowns in the NFL. With a record rooted in embracing challenges and leading successful defenses, Martindale’s leadership is a significant asset for Michigan. Insiders speculate his tactics and leadership will likely gear the Wolverines towards formidable conference defenses in upcoming seasons. His rich NFL experience, award-winning defensive coaching skills, and family ties to the football world make his arrival in Ann Arbor much anticipated.

The University of Michigan welcomes Wink Martindale as the new Defensive Coordinator for their football team this season. Known for creating one of the most formidable defenses in the NFL, Martindale joins the Wolverines’ coaching staff equipped with a wealth of experience from over 20 years in the league. Teams under his guidance have consistently ranked at the top for defensive performance. Michigan fans can expect to see some thrilling defensive plays under Martindale’s leadership.

Martindale, whose full name is Don “Wink” Martindale, arrives from the New York Giants, where he helped lead the team to the playoffs in 2022. His defense was instrumental in their Wild Card victory over Minnesota, although they couldn’t topple the eventual Super Bowl runners-up, Philadelphia. His ability to bring out the best in his players has been acknowledged industry-wide, earning him the prestigious Paul ‘Dr. Z’ Zimmerman Award for lifetime achievement as an assistant coach.

During his long tenure in the pro leagues, Martindale coordinated defenses for several franchises, including the Baltimore Ravens from 2018 to 2021. It’s there that he shaped a defensive unit known for its staunch resilience, contributing to a Super Bowl win in his first season. His player-focused approach has led to 22 Pro Bowl and 10 All-Pro accolades, making his players some of the most celebrated in the NFL. His new role promises to leverage all that experience to ramp up the Wolverines’ game.

Apart from his professional highlights, Martindale’s college coaching roots run deep. His early career saw him serve as an assistant coach at several institutions, including Cincinnati and Notre Dame, and he previously worked with Western Kentucky, guiding its team to a National Championship in 2002. This blend of collegiate expertise and NFL caliber coaching makes him a versatile asset for the Michigan team.

His personal journey began in Dayton, Ohio, where he was celebrated as an all-state linebacker in high school, and he earned his degree at Defiance College where he also played. Martindale, alongside his wife Laura, shares a passion for football that’s evident in their family, with their children and grandchildren forming a supportive backdrop to his illustrious career. As he takes on this new challenge, Michigan fans are hopeful for a renewed defensive vigor that echoes his successful past.