Robert Ray Handley

Robert Ray Handley, an American football coach best known for his tenure as head coach of the New York Giants, passed away on February 5, 2026, at the age of 81. Born on October 8, 1944, Handley dedicated much of his life to the sport, leaving a significant mark as both a player and a coach. His career spanned collegiate programs and the National Football League, where he was part of two Super Bowl-winning teams.

Handley's journey in football began at Stanford University, where he excelled as a running back. His collegiate playing career culminated in a First-team All-PCC selection in 1964, showcasing his talent on the field. After his playing days, Handley transitioned to coaching, starting as a graduate assistant at his alma mater in 1967.

He honed his coaching skills through various assistant roles at institutions like Army, Stanford, and Air Force before making the leap to the NFL. Handley joined the New York Giants in 1984 as an offensive backfield coach, a position he held for seven seasons. During this period, he contributed to the Giants' formidable success, including their Super Bowl XXI and XXV championships.

In 1991, Handley was appointed head coach of the New York Giants, succeeding the legendary Bill Parcells. His two seasons at the helm saw the team compile a regular season record of 14-18. Following his departure from the Giants in 1992, Handley largely withdrew from the public eye, choosing a quieter life in the Lake Tahoe area.

Ray Handley will be remembered for his deep commitment to football and his contributions to the sport at both collegiate and professional levels. His legacy includes his time as a successful assistant coach and his challenging, yet notable, period as an NFL head coach.