Glazer: Giants Doing 'Damage Control' After Firing Shurmur, Keeping Gettleman

New York Giants president John Mara said Monday general manager Dave Gettleman understands his "batting average has to increase going forward" after being retained despite the firing of head coach Pat Shurmur. 

Mara explained there could be some disagreement about whether some of Gettleman's moves were correct, but there's no doubt the overall success rate must increase, per Kimberly Jones of the NFL Network.

"I'm looking for leadership," he told reporters about the team's coaching search. "Someone who can take control of this roster and build a culture that will lead to winning."

Jay Glazer of Fox Sports said the entire situation is an attempt at "damage control":

The Giants have qualified for the playoffs just once since winning Super Bowl XLVI at the end of the 2011-12 season, and they got blown out in the game by the Green Bay Packers four seasons ago.

New York has been among the NFL's worst teams over the past three years with a 12-36 record.

"I say to the fans that I understand your frustration and concerns," team chairman Steve Tisch said. "There's going to be a real priority that the next head coach has strong leadership abilities and a good track record."

Gettleman, who served as the Carolina Panthers' general manager from 2013 through 2017, returned to the Giants for the 2018 season. He was previously with the franchise from 1999 until 2012 as part of its pro personnel department.

New York has signed a few high-profile free agents in offensive lineman Nate Solder and wide receiver Golden Tate, but the team's overall lack of impact additions has left a roster short on talent on both sides of the ball, including an offense now led by quarterback Daniel Jones and running back Saquon Barkley.

In turn, it's a bit surprising the team decided to keep its general manager instead of trying to completely start fresh given the firing of Shurmur.

ESPN's Chris Mortensen reported Baylor's Matt Rhule has emerged as a favorite for the coaching vacancy:

"

Baylor’s Matt Rhule is prominent in Giants coach search, per sources. He served as assistant under Tom Coughlin in 2012.
Jets job was Rhule’s to turn down last season. He said no to Jets.

— Chris Mortensen (@mortreport) December 30, 2019"

A new direction built more on the offensive philosophies that made Rhule successful at Baylor and Temple would be a welcome sight in New York.

The need for a deeper, more talented roster is still glaring, however, and that falls squarely at the feet of Gettleman after being retained.