The Baltimore Ravens fired head coach John Harbaugh after 18 seasons, capped by a Super Bowl victory and 180 regular-season wins. The decision followed a 26-24 Week 18 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers—marked by a missed 44-yard field goal—eliminating Baltimore from the playoffs for the first time since 2021. Harbaugh's agent reported interest from seven NFL teams within 45 minutes of the announcement.
John Harbaugh's 18-year tenure (2008-2025) delivered a 180-113 regular-season record, 13-11 postseason mark (193-124 overall), 12 playoff appearances, four AFC Championship games, and Super Bowl XLVII. However, the Ravens posted an 8-9 record in 2025—their third losing season under him—including a 1-5 start amid injuries like Lamar Jackson's hamstring issue, a midseason rally, and a late collapse with four losses in the final six games.
Owner Steve Bisciotti lauded Harbaugh's legacy but stressed the need for change: "John's impact is immeasurable, but after careful consideration, we believe this is the right time for a fresh direction." Harbaugh, 62 and contracted through 2028, responded with gratitude: "I've been blessed to coach in Baltimore... It comes with disappointment, but more with gratitude and appreciation." Reports indicated tension over Harbaugh's defense of offensive coordinator Todd Monken.
The vacancy is the NFL's most coveted, featuring Jackson, a top defense, and a wide-open AFC. SportsLine odds favor the New York Giants (+300) to hire Harbaugh, followed by Miami Dolphins (+400), Atlanta Falcons, Las Vegas Raiders, and Tennessee Titans. His agent noted one pursuing team wasn't even shopping for a coach.
Ravens candidates include Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores and Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady. The franchise, seeking its fourth head coach in 30 years, aims to maximize Jackson's prime amid historical postseason struggles under Harbaugh (just three playoff wins in Jackson's eight years).