Wink Martindale becomes candidate to join Michigan as defensive coordinator

LAS VEGAS — It looks as if Wink Martindale has been closed out of NFL defensive coordinator jobs but he could be in line for a marquee position in college.

He is a candidate to replace Jesse Minter at Michigan, according to reports, with Minter following Jim Harbaugh to the Chargers.

Joe Cullen, the Chiefs’ defensive line coach, is also a strong consideration for Michigan, the defending national champions, as new head coach Sherrone Moore fills out his staff in Ann Arbor.

Cullen would not be able to be hired until after Sunday’s Super Bowl LVIII.

Martindale, 60, spent a decade working for Harbaugh’s younger brother, John, with the Ravens.

He was hired by Brian Daboll in 2022 to run the Giants’ defense but lasted only two seasons before personality conflicts led to Martindale’s departure with one year remaining on his contract.

He has not been a college coach since 2003, when he was the defensive coordinator at Western Kentucky.

Chiefs get visit from old friend

Chiefs coach Andy Reid revealed his team had a visit from an old friend before the AFC Championship game with former offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy stopping by.

Bieniemy just lost his job as the Commanders’ offensive coordinator when new coach Dan Quinn opted not to retain him. Reid said the team was excited to spend time with Bieniemy.

“He talked with the offensive guys and hung out with us in our meetings,” Reid said. “He’s still up for a couple of jobs.”

Bieniemy was with the Chiefs from 2013-22, serving as offensive coordinator from 2018 through last year’s Super Bowl win.

Reid was asked if he would bring Bieniemy back to his staff, but Reid said he currently has no opening so he can’t answer that.

“I think his coaching future is bright,” Reid said.

Field report

It’s clear the 49ers are not happy with the practice fields they’ve been assigned to use this week at UNLV, reportedly frustrated that it is too soft and loose. It is also clear the Niners are done talking about it.

“We had a normal practice,” 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan said Wednesday. “Everyone has their preferences. Wish things were better [but] this is the best choice we’ve got.”

NFLPA executive director Lloyd Howell chimed in on the field conditions at UNLV.

He said the field “really isn’t up to snuff for what our players deserve.”

Chiefs roster moves

The Chiefs activated WR Skyy Moore off of injured reserve.

They placed DE Charles Omenihu on IR in a corresponding move.

Omenihu tore his ACL during the AFC title game.