Minnesota Vikings offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur getting the New York Giants head coaching job was one of the worst-kept secrets in the NFL in the past week. Still, the official confirmation came only after the Vikings were eliminated in the NFC championship game against the Philadelphia Eagles. The Giants introduced Shurmur as their next head coach, 18th in the franchise history, on Monday. According to ESPN‘s Adam Schefter, Shurmur signed a five-year deal.
“I want to thank [co-owners] John Mara and Steve Tisch for giving me the opportunity to be the head coach of the New York Giants,” – said Shurmur after the hiring became official. “I am looking forward to getting to work with [general manager] Dave Gettleman and [assistant GM] Kevin Abrams and starting the process to once again build a championship team. I have been fortunate to work with many great coaches and players, and I am thankful for those relationships. I would like to thank my family and friends for their tremendous support.“
According to reports, Shurmur was one of the six candidates the Giants interviews. Among others were New England Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels and defensive coordinator Matt Patricia and Carolina Panthers defensive coordinator Steve Wilks. The Giants had their eyes set on Patricia, but he decided to go with the Detroit Lions offer. After that, the team went all in on Shurmur who also interviewed with Arizona Cardinals and Chicago Bears.
“I can’t wait to start working with Pat,” – said Giants’ GM Dave Gettleman in a statement. “I know he will provide the type of leadership we need to take our team back to where it belongs. I have followed Pat’s career for many years, and he has had great success wherever he has been. What struck me during our conversation is that being the head coach of the New York Giants is not too big for him. He is made for this moment and this opportunity.“
This won’t be Pat Shurmur’s first head coaching job since he previously served as coach of Cleveland Browns, with whom he compiled 9-23 record during two seasons.
