As New York Giants head coach John Harbaugh initiates sweeping changes to the defensive coaching staff, outside linebackers coach Charlie Bullen emerges as the only holdover with a realistic chance to remain on the team,” reports Ryan Dunleavy of the New York Post.

Among the defensive assistants assembled last season by former head coach Brian Daboll, only Charlie Bullen (outside linebackers) — who was promoted to interim defensive coordinator with five games remaining — still has a chance to remain. Bullen and general manager Joe Schoen have a close relationship from their days together in the Dolphins organization.

Multiple assistants from Brian Daboll’s previous staff — including defensive line coach Andre Patterson, inside linebackers coach John Egorugwu, secondary coach/pass game coordinator Marquand Manuel, and cornerbacks coach Jeff Burris — have been informed they will not be retained.

General manager Joe Schoen personally notified some via phone, freeing them to pursue other opportunities without in-person meetings with Harbaugh.

Bullen, promoted to interim defensive coordinator after Shane Bowen’s midseason firing, earned praise for revitalizing a struggling unit. Under his aggressive scheme, the defense returned to traditional Giants standards, generating more consistent pressure, mixing coverages effectively, and unlocking the potential of rookie linebacker Abdul Carter alongside stars like Brian Burns and Dexter Lawrence.

His prior connection with Schoen from their Miami Dolphins days may aid retention, though Bullen would likely return to his outside linebackers role rather than defensive coordinator, as Harbaugh eyes external candidates.

The Dallas Cowboys recently requested an interview with Bullen, underscoring his rising stock.

This article originally appeared on Giants Wire: Charlie Bullen has chance to survive Giants’ coaching staff purge