On Tuesday, it was reported that Michigan Wolverines defensive coordinator Wink Martindale will be interviewing for the Atlanta Falcons’ defensive coordinator vacancy. For Martindale, this may be his opening and opportunity to return to the NFL after only one year in the college football ranks. As a result, individuals on social media have started discussing what this could mean for the Wolverines moving forward.
Martindale was previously the defensive coordinator of the Denver Broncos, Baltimore Ravens, and New York Giants. However, at the end of last season, Martindale and the Giants mutually agreed to part ways before the he joined the Wolverines staff.
Social Media Reaction to Wink Martindale NFL Rumors
On3 broke the news that Martindale had reportedly been invited to interview for Atlanta’s vacant defensive coordinator role.
“REPORT: Michigan defensive coordinator Wink Martindale will interview for the Atlanta Falcons DC job, per @jjones9.”
REPORT: Michigan defensive coordinator Wink Martindale will interview for the Atlanta Falcons DC job, per @jjones9.https://t.co/w9aCgHmwZ2 pic.twitter.com/cYaRukf29f
— On3 (@On3sports) January 14, 2025
In response, one person detailed how Martindale returning to the NFL could potentially be devastating for the Wolverines.
“Michigan might be cooked…,” they stated.
Michigan might be cooked…
— Ben (@TheHurricaneBen) January 14, 2025
One Michigan fan expressed their desire to see Martindale stay at Michigan and have success with the school.
“😔 Come on, Wink. Let us get that Natty first and then go be great, my brother,” they said.
😔 Come on, Wink. Let us get that Natty first and then go be great, my brother.
— Camino Reid (@bangwithcamino) January 14, 2025
Finally, one individual outlined how the Falcons were a strong fit for Martindale.
“Perfect fit for the Falcons. Michigan won’t have a defense next year!,” they explained.
Perfect fit for the Falcons.
Michigan won’t have a defense next year!— NewYorkWill (@WillLeechow826) January 14, 2025
Wink Martindale Future Outlook
There is no doubting the defensive knowledge Martindale has about the game of football. Over his long career, he has coached and developed numerous great teams and players. This year, his Wolverines defense averaged only 19.9 points against per game, ranking 19th in all of college football.
Martindale leaving the Wolverines could potentially have a negative impact on the program, as the team is also expected to lose defensive tackles Mason Graham and Kenneth Grant, as well as cornerback Will Johnson to the NFL Draft next year. All three individuals were selected in the first round of Pro Football Network’s latest 2025 NFL Mock Draft.
For Martindale personally, though, a move to the Falcons makes a lot of sense. Atlanta has numerous star defensive players, including A.J. Terrell and Jessie Bates III. In addition, the team is expected to be contending for the NFC South next year, meaning that Martindale would be joining a team with playoff aspirations should he get the job.