Ray Handley, who served as the head coach of the New York Giants from 1991 to 1992 and was previously a longtime assistant under Bill Parcells during the team’s Super Bowl run, has died at age 81. The team and NFL community are remembering Handley for his contributions to the game both on and off the field.
Handley’s NFL coaching career began with the Giants in 1984, where he worked as an offensive assistant. As a member of Parcells’ coaching staff, Handley played a key role in the development of the Giants’ offensive strategies. He was part of the coaching team that helped guide the franchise to its first Super Bowl victory in the 1986 season. During that time, the Giants won Super Bowl XXI, defeating the Denver Broncos.
In 1991, Handley was promoted to replace Parcells as head coach following Parcells’ resignation. Handley served two seasons in the role, compiling an overall record of 14-18. His tenure included a 8-8 finish in 1991 and a 6-10 season in 1992, after which he was replaced by Dan Reeves. Though his time as head coach was brief and met with challenges, Handley remained respected in coaching circles for his football intellect and dedication to the sport.
Prior to his NFL coaching career, Handley coached at Stanford University, among other collegiate programs. He earned a reputation as a detail-oriented and thoughtful coach who valued preparation and fundamentals.
Former colleagues and players have expressed condolences and reflected on Handley’s impact, remembering him as a committed coach who cared deeply about the game and those he worked with. His contributions to the Giants, particularly during their rise to championship prominence in the late 1980s, remain part of the team’s legacy.
No cause of death has been publicly disclosed. He is survived by family members and a wide network of friends and former colleagues from decades in football.
