Giants Interview Special Teams Coordinator Candidate Matt Harper

Harper, the 49ers assistant special teams coach since 2021, is the first known candidate to meet with the Giants regarding their vacant special teams role.

The New York Giants, who have been rebuked at least twice in their attempt to get permission to interview a new special teams coordinator, finally received permission to talk to another team's coach.

Per an NFL Network report, that coach is Matt Harper, the 49ers assistant special teams coach who has been with the team since 2021.

#49ers assistant special teams coach Matt Harper interviewed this weekend for the vacant #Giants special teams coach job, source said. A rising young coach, he's been with SF since 2021.

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 15, 2024

Harper joined the 49ers after spending the previous eight seasons (2013-2020) with the Eagles, where his roles included assistant special teams coach, assistant defensive backs coach, and receivers coach. 

Before taking the job with the Eagles, his first NFL coaching stint, Harper spent four years with the University of Oregon, where he had spent two years as a student and defensive back for the football team. In his post-playing career role for the Ducks, Haroer served as a graduate assistant in 2012 and coaching intern from 2009 to 2011. 

He also coached the school's wide receivers, special teams unit, and tight ends during his time as a coaching staff member.  

Harper is the son of linebacker Willie Harper, a second-round draft pick by the 49ers in 1973 (41st overall). The elder Harper spent 11 seasons with the 49ers and was a part of the Super Bowl XVI Championship team.

Keep track of all the Giants coaching interviews here.

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