Giants' Wink Martindale admits he was 'hurt' by Xavier McKinney's criticism of coaching staff

Fox News Flash top sports headlines are here. Check out what's clicking on Foxnews.com.

New York Giants defensive coordinator Wink Martindale revealed that he was "hurt" by the comments made by safety and co-defensive captain Xavier McKinney after last week’s loss to the Las Vegas Raiders, adding that it was the first time he dealt with something like this as a coach. 

With problems for the Giants continuing to mount, McKinney voiced his frustrations with the team’s coaching staff – without naming any names – following Sunday’s 30-6 loss to the Raiders.

Michael Mayer, #87 of the Las Vegas Raiders, is tackled near the goal line by Xavier McKinney, #29 of the New York Giants, in the second quarter of a game at Allegiant Stadium on Nov. 5, 2023 in Las Vegas. (Ian Maule/Getty Images)

"I think that from a leadership standpoint, I don't think they've done a great job of letting the leaders lead, and listening to the leaders and the captains," McKinney told ESPN. 

GIANTS’ TOMMY DEVITO WILL BREAK NFL SINGLE-SEASON RECORD WITH FIRST CAREER START ON SUNDAY

"It was one of those things where you have some of your leaders, captains from a defensive standpoint, trying to switch things up. And just not really being heard."

McKinney’s comments seemingly resonated with Martindale, who told reporters ahead of Thursday’s practice that he was "hurt" by what was said. 

"I mean it surprised me because it’s the first time it’s ever happened in my career that a player would make a statement like that," he said. "I think it was a case where the kid is just frustrated from losing."

Giants defensive coordinator Wink Martindale after a stop on a fourth-down play that sealed the game for the Giants. (IMAGN)

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE