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After more than two weeks, the Ravens’ search for a new head coach is over. The team announced Jesse Minter as the next man in charge Thursday. Now, the focus shifts to what comes next — particularly how Minter builds his first coaching staff in Baltimore. At the center of that process is the most important decision he’ll make early on: who will call plays for quarterback Lamar Jackson, who remains under contract for at least two more seasons. Here are five potential candidates to fill that role: Joe Brady Brady has served as Buffalo’s offensive coordinator for the past three seasons, overseeing one of the league’s most consistent offenses. During that span, the Bills finished with a top-five scoring offense and a top-10 rushing attack each year, including the NFL’s best rushing offense in 2025. Quarterback Josh Allen totaled 7,399 passing yards and 53 passing touchdowns under Brady, posting a top-seven QBR in all three seasons. The Ravens interviewed Brady twice for their head coaching vacancy, most recently Thursday, just before Jesse Minter was hired. He was the final candidate to meet with the organization. Brady could also factor into Buffalo’s plans following the firing of head coach Sean McDermott earlier this week. He interviewed for the Bills’ opening Wednesday. Davis Webb Webb has overseen the rapid development of Broncos quarterback Bo Nix over the past two seasons. He served as Denver’s quarterbacks coach from 2023 to 2024 before adding offensive pass game coordinator to his title this season. Under Webb, Nix threw for 7,706 yards and 54 touchdowns, guiding the Broncos to the AFC championship game before a broken ankle ended his season in a 33–30 overtime win over Buffalo in the divisional round. A former third-round pick by the Giants in 2017, Webb bounced between both New York teams and Buffalo during a six-year NFL career, appearing in two games before transitioning into coaching. He interviewed with the Ravens for their head coaching vacancy on Jan. 8 and has also interviewed with Las Vegas. Nathan Scheelhaase Like Brady, Webb and Kliff Kingsbury, Scheelhaase also interviewed for Baltimore’s head coaching vacancy, doing so on Jan. 17. Now in his second season with the Rams, Scheelhaase has emerged as one of the rising offensive minds in this hiring cycle. After serving as an offensive assistant and passing game specialist in 2024, he was promoted to pass game coordinator for the 2025 season. Los Angeles finished the regular season with the NFL’s top passing offense, while quarterback Matthew Stafford emerged as an MVP candidate after throwing for 4,707 yards and a league-best 46 touchdowns. A former quarterback at Illinois, Scheelhaase began his coaching career as the Illini’s assistant director of football operations before moving through a variety of offensive roles at Illinois and Iowa State. He joined the Rams in 2024, quickly earning a larger role in Sean McVay’s offensive staff. Tee Martin Martin would be a hire aimed at continuity — and potentially at appeasing Lamar Jackson — after spending the past three seasons in Baltimore as the quarterbacks coach. Before that, he served as the Ravens’ wide receivers coach from 2021 to 2022. Martin does have play-calling experience, most notably as offensive coordinator at USC from 2016 to 2018. His tenure began strongly, with 10-3 and 11-3 seasons in which the Trojans averaged more than 30 points per game. Quarterback Sam Darnold was drafted third overall following that stretch. The stint ended on a sour note, however. Martin was fired after a 5–7 season in 2018, during which the offense stagnated and his play-calling duties were removed midway through the year. Related Articles Mike Preston: Ravens get back to roots with Jesse Minter hire | COMMENTARY NFL pundits react to Ravens hiring Jesse Minter as coach: ‘Brilliant’ READER POLL: How would you grade the Ravens’ hire of coach Jesse Minter? Instant analysis: Ravens hire Jesse Minter as head coach Who is Jesse Minter? 5 things to know about new Ravens coach. Kliff Kingsbury Kingsbury most recently served as the offensive coordinator for the Commanders, who reached the NFC championship game in his first season with rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels under center. Daniels flourished, finishing the regular season with the league’s fourth-best QBR (67.7), then elevated his play in the postseason. He threw for 822 yards, five touchdowns and one interception in three playoff games, completing 65.8% of his passes. Washington regressed the following season after Daniels was sidelined for 10 games, falling from the league’s fifth-highest-scoring offense to 22nd. Still, Kingsbury’s reputation as a quarterback whisperer remains strong. He guided Kyler Murray to his lone postseason appearance in 2021 during a four-year tenure as Arizona’s head coach and previously worked with Patrick Mahomes and Johnny Manziel at the college level, before overseeing Daniels’ breakout rookie season. Kingsbury and Washington agreed to part ways following his second season with the team, and reports indicated he was pursuing other opportunities. He interviewed for the Ravens’ head coaching position on Jan. 12, and The Athletic’s Dianna Russini reported that Kingsbury is a preferred offensive coordinator option for the two-time NFL Most Valuable Player. Though according to a source with direct knowledge of the situation, Kingsbury is not expected to be high on the list of potential coordinators for Minter. Have a news tip? Contact Michael Howes at mhowes@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/Mikephowes. View the full article

The Ravens hired Los Angles Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter on Thursday to become the fourth head coach in the team’s history, and his approach to playing tough, physical football is a welcomed addition in Baltimore. The general consensus around town was that the Ravens needed to hire a coach who would accommodate star quarterback Lamar Jackson, a two-time NFL Most Valuable Player Award winner. But the Ravens needed to get back to their basics of being one of the most dominant defensive teams in the league. They had lost that the past two years under the direction of previous coordinator Zach Orr, but at least now they have someone who can oversee the defensive operation here. The Ravens can’t bring back Hall of Fame players such as middle linebacker Ray Lewis and safety Ed Reed and a future one in outside linebacker Terrell Suggs, but at least they have someone who truly knows about “Playing Like A Raven,” especially on the defensive side of the ball. Minter is 42, and he’ll make his share of mistakes as a young coach, but he has a history here. He was a defensive assistant in Baltimore from 2017 through 2020. He later became the defensive coordinator at Vanderbilt in 2021, and eventually served as Michigan’s defensive coordinator under Harbaugh’s younger brother, Jim, in 2022 and 2023. He moved to Los Angeles with Jim Harbaugh and the Chargers for the past two seasons. There is an obvious connection here with the Harbaugh family, but more importantly, it’s about improving a major area of weakness. I understand the rules of the game have changed to favor the offense, especially since Roger Goodell became NFL commissioner in 2006. You can’t sniff a quarterback these days without a penalty. But the Ravens already have Jackson and one of the best running backs in modern day history in Derrick Henry. Even with a suspect and questionable offensive line, scoring still won’t be a problem with this team, not with playmakers such as slot receiver Zay Flowers and tight end Mark Andrews. But the Ravens’ defense in 2025 was simply horrendous. They allowed 248 passing yards per game, which was ranked 30th in the league. Overall, they were ranked near the bottom in total defense, and they struggled with getting consistent pressure on quarterbacks. On the back end, the Ravens couldn’t make up their minds about coverages, not knowing if they were in man-to-man or playing zone. There were times when they would shrug their shoulders in embarrassment. Fans like to point fingers at former Ravens coach John Harbaugh, but Orr’s unit was also a contributing factor in why he blew 17 double-digit leads in the second half of games. Here is more damaging proof about the Ravens’ suspect defense: Outside linebacker Odafe Oweh had 23 sacks in nearly six seasons and 67 regular-season games with the Ravens, but he had 7 1/2 in 12 regular-season games with the Chargers after an October trade. He added another three in one postseason game, a 16-3 loss to the Patriots. The major difference was that Minter put him in a position to just go after quarterbacks. He was a “go fetch” guy. It’s all about scheme and game plans. Here’s the bottom line: If an opponent can’t score, they can’t win. Ask the 2000 Ravens. In two seasons with Los Angles, Minter turned around one of the league’s worst defenses into to one of the NFL’s best. The Chargers allowed only 17.7 points per game in 2024, which led the NFL. This season, Los Angeles yielded just 20 per game. In both years, Los Angeles was among the NFL’s 12 best in yards allowed per game. Meanwhile, the Ravens were inconsistent under Orr during the same stretch. The gripes about finding a head coach and offensive coordinator to favor Jackson and Henry are understandable, but not valid. I’ve said it before and will say it again, it’s all about balance in the NFL. Opposing teams exploit weaknesses in this league, and the major weakness for this team was on defense. Mike Macdonald did it in Seattle, and hopefully Minter can do it in Baltimore. Related Articles 5 potential candidates to become the Ravens’ next offensive coordinator NFL pundits react to Ravens hiring Jesse Minter as coach: ‘Brilliant’ READER POLL: How would you grade the Ravens’ hire of coach Jesse Minter? Instant analysis: Ravens hire Jesse Minter as head coach Who is Jesse Minter? 5 things to know about new Ravens coach. The idea of the Ravens being too patient in the hiring of Minter was also exaggerated. The candidates for the Ravens head coaching position provided a diverse field, but that means nothing: Just hire the best candidate for the job. If it meant waiting until the Super Bowl was played, then so be it. It will be interesting to see Minter assemble a coaching staff. John Harbaugh struggled in that area for a couple of years before Ozzie Newsome, the team’s vice president, aided him. Former Ravens assistant Greg Roman was the Chargers’ most recent offensive coordinator, but he was fired shortly after the Chargers lost to New England, 16-3, in the wild-card round of the playoffs. Would Roman be a good match for Jackson? Ahh, probably not again. But overall, the Ravens made a positive and good hire. Minter might have problems controlling some of the veterans on the team at first, but he’ll adjust. All young head coaches have a learning curve. Have a news tip? Contact Mike Preston at epreston@baltsun.com, 410-332-6467 and x.com/MikePrestonSun. View the full article

The Ravens named Jesse Minter as their next head coach Thursday evening, bringing in the 42-year-old defensive mind to replace John Harbaugh. “Jesse was impressive throughout our incredibly thorough interview process,” owner Steve Bisciotti said in a statement. “He clearly understands the values, high expectations and history of the Ravens, and he has a great vision for the future.” While Baltimore’s organization obviously likes its own decision, what do national analysts have to say? Here’s a sampling of pundit reactions: Mina Kimes, ESPN “ like this,” Kimes, an NFL analyst, wrote on X. “Have said I think the Ravens should go defense; he’s been fantastic in LA. Creative and gotten the most out of both the young and veteran talent there.” Jordan Schultz “The biggest endorsement I can give #Ravens fans about Jesse Minter is this: his players LOVED playing for him … from Derwin James and Khalil Mack to Daiyan Henley, Tarheeb Still, Tony Jefferson, and so many others,” the NFL insider posted on X. “One of the best coaches they all had.” Jonathan Jones, CBS Sports “We still are waiting to see what exactly Jesse Minter’s offensive plan is going to be … but not a surprise that it’s Jesse Minter with the Baltimore Ravens,” the insider said. “Two years ago, Mike Macdonald seemed to be the next guy up with Baltimore, and the Seattle Seahawks struck, and they went and got him as their head coach. Now look at where Seattle is, just one game away from the Super Bowl with Mike Macdonald.” Tom Pelissero, NFL Network “The Ravens did their last head coaching interview today with Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady, who now is a potential OC candidate for Baltimore as Jesse Minter fills out his staff,” the insider posted on X. “Brady also interviewed Wednesday for Buffalo’s head coaching job.” Ian Rapoport, NFL Network “The reality is, this was the favorite all along,” the insider said. “He is a young, brilliant defensive mind, and the Ravens have known that. He was in their building, spent several years helping out with the defensive backs, working as a coach before going to flourish at Michigan and with the Chargers. General manager Eric DeCosta always kept tabs on Minter, knowing that potentially he could be someone they would bring back. As soon as they parted ways with John Harbaugh, this is a guy they set their sights on.” Ted Nguyen, The Athletic “Great hire by Baltimore,” the NFL writer posted on X. Jon Ledyard, Audibles & Analytics “Ravens hiring someone in Harbaugh circle to replace Harbaugh,” the NFL analyst posted on X. “I really like Minter as a defensive mind, schemer, teacher. He’s so good. One of the biggest questions in his interviews has been who his OC will be? How does he see offensive football? Excited to find out.” Albert Breer, Sports Illustrated’s Monday Morning Quarterback “Ravens moved fast on Jesse Minter — he interviewed in Baltimore yesterday, and the team kept him there, knowing he’d had a good interview with the Raiders Tuesday and was scheduled to go to Cleveland today,” he posted on X. “They love his IQ and EQ, creativity, and ability to build relationships.” AJ Gersh, FOX45 Baltimore sports anchor “For anything you need to know about Jesse Minter, look at how Chargers fans speak about him,” he posted on X. “Nothing but positives. And, as he was a candidate, all I saw was ‘please don’t go.'” Related Articles 5 potential candidates to become the Ravens’ next offensive coordinator Mike Preston: Ravens get back to roots with Jesse Minter hire | COMMENTARY READER POLL: How would you grade the Ravens’ hire of coach Jesse Minter? Instant analysis: Ravens hire Jesse Minter as head coach Who is Jesse Minter? 5 things to know about new Ravens coach. James Palmer, Bleacher Report “Even though Minter was on the defensive side of the ball, he and Lamar Jackson already have a very good relationship,” he posted on X. “An important part of the process.” Nate Tice, Yahoo Sports “Felt like it was -1000 that Minter would get this job,” Tice posted on X. “And deservedly so! His defenses are well-coached and he’s been putting together impressive game plans at several stops now. Now onto the offensive staff…” Have a news tip? Contact Bennett Conlin at bconlin@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/BennettConlin. View the full article

The Ravens on Thursday agreed to hire Jesse Minter to be their fourth coach in franchise history. The 42-year-old spent the past two seasons as the Chargers’ defensive coordinator and has familiarity with Baltimore, having spent four seasons from 2017 to 2020 in various defensive coaching roles under John Harbaugh, whom the Ravens fired on Jan. 6 after 18 seasons. How would you grade the hire? We want to hear from you. After you vote, leave a comment and we might use your take in The Baltimore Sun. The Baltimore Sun reader poll is an unscientific survey in which website users volunteer their opinions on the subject of the poll. To read the results of previous reader polls, click here. View the full article

The Ravens named Jesse Minter their next head coach, the team announced Thursday. Minter previously spent time as a Ravens assistant, and he was most recently the defensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Chargers. Here’s what The Baltimore Sun’s sports staff has to say about the new hire: Brian Wacker, reporter The Ravens interviewed more than 15 candidates to replace fired coach John Harbaugh. Right from the start, Jesse Minter’s name began to percolate in NFL circles and for obvious reasons. He’d turned around defenses wherever he went. There was organizational and familial familiarity with him, with Minter having spent the past two seasons as Chargers defensive coordinator under Harbaugh’s younger brother Jim and Minter having worked in Baltimore previously. He was also, as ESPN analyst and former NFL executive Louis Riddick told The Baltimore Sun this week, a “rock solid” individual who has head coach written all over him. Riddick beamed about Minter is sharp, organized, detail-oriented, knows the game, prioritizes relationships and communication, understands it is not a one-size-fits-all league and understands the landscape of not just dealing with players but how to connect with them. That will be his first job, starting with quarterback Lamar Jackson after Harbaugh and Jackson had plateaued together. Minter’s addition should also help immediately spark a defensive turnaround for a unit that in 2023 led the league in sacks, takeaways and points allowed. Defense has long been the identity of the organization and now the Ravens will shape things that way again with a fresh voice who will bring in an offensive coordinator to try to get the best out of Jackson and marry the two sides together in pursuit of a Super Bowl. Sam Cohn, reporter By all accounts, the Ravens went about this the right way. They went into the coaching search with a guy in mind, a familiar name who checks off their presumed boxes, while still casting a (very) wide net. Or, to borrow a phrase John Harbaugh liked to use: Turn over every stone. And by the end, they took Minter, the odds-on favorite all month. It sort of felt like the scene from “Draft Day” — Jesse Minter no matter what. Minter is a defensive-minded guy. The 42-year-old can be a new voice while still connecting to the lore of unrelenting Ravens defenses. He’s had incredible success the past four years as a defensive coordinator, first at Michigan then in Los Angeles. Minter feels like the right mix of fresh blood and proven candidate. He’s not one of the 30-year-old up-and-comers. He’s someone who the Ravens could fully invest their Super Bowl aspirations into. Remember, owner Steve Bisciotti said he’d be patient with the new guy. Just not too patient. “I’d probably give him five or six years,” he said, “as long as I like everything else I see in him.” Josh Tolentino, columnist Following an exhaustive coaching search that featured nearly two dozen candidates, the Ravens landed on Jesse Minter, a hire that reflects institutional familiarity and recent rising success. I’m a fan of both the team’s process and direction with the Ravens prioritizing a defensive coach, especially after two seasons of regression and multiple late-game collapses, all while carrying pricy defensive stars atop the roster. As owner Steve Bisciotti pointed out during his news conference last Tuesday, it became impossible to ignore the reality that the Ravens have failed to reach their lofty expectations in recent seasons. Minter, of course, has valuable history with the Ravens, previously serving as a defensive assistant, giving him first-hand knowledge of how the Ravens operate both from day-to-day and long-term developmental standpoints. Minter’s arrival represents only a portion of the equation, though. The franchise’s fourth head coach must now work hand in hand with Eric DeCosta and attempt to build a coaching staff that maximizes the talent on the roster headlined by quarterback and two-time NFL Most Valuable Player Lamar Jackson. If the Ravens are serious about maximizing the remainder of Jackson’s prime, then Minter’s most important early decisions may come in following days. The next offensive staff must be equally creative and adaptable, capable of evolving with Jackson after he endured an injury-filled season that saw him post career lows in rushing. Ultimately, Minter, 42, was hired to fix what’s been broken defensively and also to continue adding to an established culture. But like his predecessor John Harbaugh, he’ll ultimately be judged on whether he can oversee a complete operation. Bisciotti joked that his next head coach has a timeline of six years to win the team’s coveted third Lombardi Trophy. But after moving on from the most successful coach in franchise history, the pressure is on for Minter to beat that timeline with Jackson entering his age 29 season. Michael Howes, reporter After flirting with the idea of a retread coach, owner Steve Bisciotti and the Ravens ultimately turned to a first-time head coach. Minter fits much of the mold of former Baltimore defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald: young, defensive-minded and shaped by his time at Michigan under Jim Harbaugh before calling plays in the NFL. That hire worked for Seattle with a looming NFC championship game in his second year. Minter should help stabilize a defense that has regressed over the past two seasons, but his most consequential decisions are still ahead — starting with his offensive coordinator hire. Bisciotti has made it clear the organization intends to build around quarterback Lamar Jackson, and Jackson’s involvement in the interview process suggests that alignment mattered. Who calls Jackson’s plays will go a long way toward determining whether the two-time NFL MVP can return to peak form — and whether Baltimore can execute Bisciotti’s vision of keeping its franchise quarterback engaged, productive and in Baltimore long term. Related Articles Who is Jesse Minter? 5 things to know about new Ravens coach. Ravens agree to hire Chargers DC Jesse Minter as coach, replacing John Harbaugh Inside Ravens’ coach search from 2 ex-NFL execs: ‘They have the template’ READERS RESPOND: Ravens fans would be OK with hiring first-time head coach Ex-Ravens QB Joe Flacco discusses retirement timeline and Harbaugh firing Bennett Conlin, editor There are a lot of coaches who can win with Lamar Jackson, and Minter falls into that bucket. He’s widely respected by his coaching peers, and he brings a familiarity with the Ravens’ organization. Baltimore interviewed well over a dozen candidates, and Minter must have impressed ownership and Jackson. That’s a good sign. But this hire won’t be successful unless Minter wins a Super Bowl. It’s Super Bowl or bust with Jackson at quarterback. Minter can get it done. I thought Harbaugh could, too, but he didn’t. On paper, this hiring looks great. Will Minter make a seemingly obvious pairing pay off? At the very least, I’d anticipate Baltimore returning to the postseason in the very near future. Have a news tip? Contact Tim Schwartz at timschwartz@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/timschwartz13. View the full article

The Ravens got their guy. Los Angeles Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter, 42, is trading coasts to succeed the 18-year tenure of coach John Harbaugh. Here are five things to know about Minter: Minter has close ties to the Harbaugh family (and Mike Tomlin) First, a bit of background: Minter got his start in coaching as a defensive intern at Notre Dame in 2006. His father, Rick Minter, was on then-head coach Charlie Weis’ staff and Weis was willing to give the younger Minter a shot. After one season, Weis fired Rick and so went his son. They went their separate coaching ways. Minter went to Cincinnati, then climbed the coaching ladder at Indiana State before going to Georgia State from 2013 to 2016. Rick had a relationship with John Harbaugh from their time coaching together at Cincinnati in the 1990s. Rick was the Bearcats’ head coach for a decade. Harbaugh was his special teams coordinator for three seasons. When Harbaugh had an opening in Baltimore two decades later, Rick made a phone call (every coaching hire starts with a phone call). Harbaugh interviewed Jesse and hired him the same day. There, Jesse worked under then defensive coordinator Don “Wink” Martindale and current Seahawks coach Mike Macdonald. Minter’s defensive philosophies are largely believed to be a byproduct of those two. By 2020, Jim needed a defensive coordinator in Michigan. He hired Macdonald, while Minter took a promotion at Vanderbilt. Then Macdonald was hired as Baltimore’s defensive coordinator in 2023. So Minter backfilled his job in Ann Arbor. Then Minter followed Jim to be a defensive coordinator in Los Angeles. And now, for his first head coaching job, he’ll succeed the other Harbaugh. Oh, and he also used to take notes from former Steelers coach Mike Tomlin. During a Steelers versus Chargers game this past fall, NBC’s Mike Tirico pointed out how Tomlin briefly coached under Rick at Cincinnati. His broadcast partner, Cris Collinsworth chimed in, “it was Jesse who would sit and just stare as a 16-year-old at what Mike Tomlin was doing coaching defensive backs and wide receivers. He just loved it, and so much of his style is modeled after Mike Tomlin.” He’s a defensive-minded coach. A successful one at that. Minter is widely regarded as one of the top defensive minds in the NFL. His past four years as a defensive coordinator at two stops are proof. In 2023, he won a national championship under Jim Harbaugh at Michigan leading the nation’s best defense by several metrics. The Wolverines went 15-0 with Minter as the defensive coordinator. Then with the Chargers in 2024, he turned a bottom-third defense into the league leader in fewest points and seventh-fewest passing yards per game. That was his first year as an NFL DC; his group became the sixth team in a half-century to give up 20 or fewer points in eight road games over one season. He followed that up with another top-five defense that forced more takeaways than 30 other teams. Credit Minter’s ability to get the most out of his roster. Minter was once described as a ‘humble warrior’ In 2024, during an appearance on the “Pat McAfee Show,” Jim called his defensive coordinator a “humble warrior” and a “jackhammer.” “I’m about to go into a meeting with Jesse,” Jim said at the time, “and it’s gonna be ‘we played this’, and he’s gonna want ‘we can get better at this.’ ‘We had this many missed tackles, and we had the two defensive offsides penalties back to back.’ He’s always … more is more for Jesse. He’s just intuitive. He knows offensive football almost as well as defensive football. He knows how an offense is going to try to attack.” That came in handy the couple times Minter has plugged into the main headset. When Michigan levied a suspension against Jim in 2023, Minter handled the first of a three-man rotation of interim coaching duties. He led the Wolverines to a 30-3 win over East Carolina. A year later in Los Angeles, Jim left the sideline early for an arrythmia, briefly leaving Minter in charge for what was a smooth transition. Jim later said that he believes Minter “checks every box” to be a future head coach. Minter’s employer isn’t the only one with rave reviews. “The thing that makes him great is, just like coach [Jim] Harbaugh, he’s not OK with just doing what he did to get there,” Chargers defensive backs coach Steve Clinkscale told The Athletic last year. “What are we doing to make it better? And this is not like a seasonal thing. It’s a daily thing.” One painful loss rewired his coaching philosophy Michigan started the 2022 season 13-0, earning a bid to the College Football Playoff and a semifinal matchup with TCU. The Wolverines lost 51-45 on a night Minter’s defense allowed 488 yards. Related Articles Ravens agree to hire Chargers DC Jesse Minter as coach, replacing John Harbaugh Inside Ravens’ coach search from 2 ex-NFL execs: ‘They have the template’ READERS RESPOND: Ravens fans would be OK with hiring first-time head coach Ex-Ravens QB Joe Flacco discusses retirement timeline and Harbaugh firing Watch Episode 22 of the BMore Football Podcast with The Baltimore Sun’s Mike Preston and Jerry Coleman presented by Rice Law According to reporting from The Athletic, Minter spent his entire flight home questioning where they went wrong. Minter formulated what would become the pillars – later renamed separators – of his defensive success: block destruction, shocking effort, ball disruption and obnoxious communication. Mike Elston, who coached at Michigan then the Chargers, told The Athletic that Minter’s impact was “immediate.” A year later, Michigan won a national championship and Minter earned his way into an NFL coordinator job. Minter is a fan of Lamar Jackson, of course When the Ravens and Chargers matched up in November 2024, the dominant storyline of the week was yet another “Harbowl.” The two brothers had a chance to duke it out for the first time since the Super Bowl in 2013. But in the week leading up to the rematch, Minter was asked about his first shot to game plan against Lamar Jackson, who was enjoying what would be his second season as the league’s Most Valuable Player. Minter called Jackson “the most electric quarterback in the history of the National Football League.” Now, he’ll have the chance to coach him. Have a news tip? Contact Sam Cohn at scohn@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/samdcohn.x.com. View the full article

The Ravens have their man. Los Angeles Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter has agreed to become Baltimore’s next head coach, the team announced Thursday night. He replaces John Harbaugh, who was fired after 18 seasons on Jan. 6. Minter, 42, is just the fourth coach in the Ravens’ 30-year history. There is also lot of familiarity between the two, and his name began to percolate in recent days as he had a second interview that was in-person with Baltimore on Wednesday. Minter was a defensive assistant in Baltimore from 2017 to 2018 and the assistant defensive backs coach in 2019 before being promoted to defensive backs coach in 2020. He then left to become defensive coordinator at Vanderbilt in 2021 and was Michigan’s defensive coordinator under Harbaugh’s younger brother, Jim, in 2022 and 2023. In two seasons with the Chargers, who finished 11-6 and were eliminated from the playoffs by the New England Patriots in the wild-card round on Jan. 11, he helped turn around a defense that was one of the league’s worst before he arrived into a top-10 unit each of the past two seasons. His ascension in the coaching ranks has also been rapid. The son of longtime college and NFL coach Rick Minter, the Arkansas native and former Mount St. Joseph University wide receiver began his coaching career in 2006 as a defensive intern at Notre Dame. He then spent as a graduate assistant at Cincinnati before becoming linebackers coach at Indiana State in 2009 and in 2011 was promoted to defensive coordinator. He then took the same job at Georgia State in 2013 before landing on John Harbaugh’s staff four years later. Now, he’ll replace the man who first hired him and the winningest coach in franchise history. Harbaugh’s 180 regular-season wins rank 14th all time. But the belief is that Minter is ready to step into the role as a first-time head coach at any level. The hope is also that he can help turn around a talented defense led by All-Pro safety Kyle Hamilton that sunk to one of the NFL’s worst each of the past two seasons after becoming the first to lead the league in sacks, takeaways and points allowed in the same season in 2023. He did that with less talent in Los Angeles, with the Chargers allowing the third fewest points per game (16) this season and ranking ninth and 10th in defensive efficiency, per FTN, in 2024 and 2025. Los Angeles also tied for the third-most interceptions (19), the seventh-most sacks (45) and gave up the fifth-fewest passing yards per game (235). It was of little surprise then that several teams with head coach openings made requests to interview Minter, Jim Harbaugh said earlier this month. “Just his ability to motivate. Just all aspects, [he’s a] teacher. It’s always about the team,” he told reporters in Los Angeles when when asked what would make Minter a good head coach. “There’s no ego there. No self-promoting. I think that’s really important in the team environment. But check every box. You got a box to check? Check it. Check it with Jesse.” Still to be determined is who Minter will hire for his offensive and defensive coordinator. Current Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken has interviewed for several head coach openings and it has been reported he is likely to join John Harbaugh to run the New York Giants’ offense. Ravens defensive coordinator Zach Orr, who has been in charge of Baltimore’s defense the past two seasons, recently interviewed with Dallas Cowboys for their defensive coordinator opening that went to and could also potentially land with the Giants. Former Ravens offensive coordinator Greg Roman held the same role with the Chargers each of the past two seasons but was let go after this season and replaced by former Miami Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel. The Ravens interviewed several other candidates for their head coach opening who could perhaps land a coordinator role, including Los Angeles Rams pass game coordinator Nathan Scheelhaase, Denver Broncos offensive pass game coordinator and quarterbacks coach Davis Webb and former Ravens assistant and ex-Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver. As for Minter, he becomes the Ravens’ coach after emerging from a list of more than 15 candidates interviewed by Baltimore. This article will be updated. Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

The Ravens’ search for a head coach grinds on, for now at least. Owner Steve Bisciotti fired John Harbaugh on Jan. 6. More than two weeks later, general manager Eric DeCosta, executive vice president Ozzie Newsome and president Sashi Brown have interviewed more than 15 candidates. Some of them — Kevin Stefanski and Robert Saleh — have since landed elsewhere. Others – including Los Angeles Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter and Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver – have been to Owings Mills for a second, in-person and thus more in-depth sessions. The last time Baltimore was in this position 18 years ago, the number of men who interviewed was about one-third of this year’s total, but former longtime NFL general manager and executive Bill Polian isn’t surprised that it’s different now. “When you’re in their position, when you’re eyeing someone new after a long period of time, the wider the net you cast, the better,” he said. Rules have also changed since, from the expansion of the Rooney Rule for minority candidates to the timing of interviews. “That way, you’ll end up with a really good cross-section. “Plus, it’s a really good job, so people are going to line up for it.” The Ravens have, broadly speaking, built an organization that has long been the envy of many around the NFL for their stability and consistency of winning with only three losing seasons since 2008, the year Harbaugh was hired. Whether that endures, though, remains to be seen, though there is confidence among the league’s cognoscenti. But it will be largely dependent upon who takes over. Paramount within that is what kind of relationship the next coach has with quarterback and two-time NFL Most Valuable Player Lamar Jackson. Those elements, along with a few others, will determine whether Baltimore continues to be held in high regard, sustain on-field success and reach its goal of winning a third Super Bowl title and its first since the 2012 season. It also starts with Jackson. Former safety and ex-NFL executive Louis Riddick, whose front office stints included stops in Washington and with the Philadelphia Eagles before he became an analyst for ESPN, believes there is nothing more important than the dynamic between the next coach and the star quarterback. “I don’t really know what the magic relationship is for that coach,” Riddick said. “Relationships are a two-way street. Accountability has to be something that’s prioritized on all sides. The coach, they’re in the business of accountability or they wouldn’t be head coaches. As the franchise quarterback, you have to be accountable — to the organization, your teammates — be dependable, available, accountable, set the tone, set the standard. All those kind of things are going to have to be the basis of that relationship. It’s nonnegotiable. “Whoever it is they ultimately decide upon has to have a relationship with Lamar, that everything is on the table and everything is an open-book policy, because that’s the most important relationship in the organization.” Riddick added that there was a lot of blame to go around for the Ravens’ failings this season, which included an 8-9 record and not reaching the playoffs for the first time since 2021 after beginning the year as the betting favorite to hoist the Vince Lombardi Trophy. He also doesn’t necessarily buy into things running their course and said the blame went far beyond just Harbaugh, Jackson or both. Related Articles READERS RESPOND: Ravens fans would be OK with hiring first-time head coach Ex-Ravens QB Joe Flacco discusses retirement timeline and Harbaugh firing Watch Episode 22 of the BMore Football Podcast with The Baltimore Sun’s Mike Preston and Jerry Coleman presented by Rice Law NFL teams opt for change over patience in offseason with record-tying 10 coaching changes In the NFL, winning seasons and playoff appearances don’t always equate to job security “In my time in the league, I don’t remember all of a sudden sitting in a meeting room thinking because of some fire-and-brimstone-ass speech I got from Bill [Belichick] or Nick [Saban] or Jerry Glanville or Jon Gruden that all of a sudden I was going to catch the ball in the red zone or protect the ball. Simply, it’s about being a professional,” Riddick said. “There are always schemes, strategies, tactics that coaches get wrong and sometimes it costs teams. They need to be held accountable. Players need to be held accountable, too, for fumbling the football and committing turnovers. I don’t like when the discourse centers solely on what coaches are responsible for. Players are responsible, too.” That includes Jackson, Riddick said, adding that it’s also not mutually exclusive to him. “Lamar is going to have a lot of responsibility,” he continued. “If the same kind of things crop up in key moments where you’re fumbling the football — and I’m not talking about just him — and not catching the football, committing critical coverage busts, missing tackles, you don’t have the personnel to be able to rush the passer, then everybody needs to be held accountable. But it all starts with him. “That next coach will have to strike that same kind of relationship with him that John had early on and maybe wasn’t as productive as it needed to be later on.” Jackson, however, makes Baltimore’s job especially appealing. Eight seasons into his career, the 29-year-old former first-round pick who said he planned to bring a championship to Charm City the night Baltimore selected him in the draft remains one of, if not the game’s most dynamic and explosive players. He is the NFL’s all-time leading rusher among quarterbacks, breaking Michael Vick’s record in 41 fewer games. Jackson is also just a season removed from career highs in touchdown passes (41) and passing yards (4,172). Yet, Jackson is also coming off the worst year of his tenure, one that was plagued by myriad injuries that caused him to miss four games and saw significant drop-offs across most metrics. Amid the injuries, he was reluctant to have some designed quarterback runs be part of the game plan, according to two sources with direct knowledge of the situation, and for two straight months missed at least one practice a week. Still, the appeal of the job is obvious. “When you have a quarterback, you’ve solved the biggest piece of the puzzle,” Polian said. “Hopefully, he’s got at least five or six years left as a top guy. That’s enticing. “Secondly, they’ve got a core bunch of guys that are really good football players. Those two things are enticing. Third, you’re going to an organization that’s sound and solid, football-oriented. They do everything right in a great market. What’s not to like?” The belief within the organization is that the same question will be able to be applied to whoever is hired to become the fourth head coach in the franchise’s 31-year history. Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver watches training camp in 2024. Weaver is one of a few candidates to interview twice for the Ravens' head coach opening. (Lynne Sladky/AP file) Among the long list of interviewees, Minter and Weaver are two names that have percolated in recent days. That’s not surprising after second-round interviews and because of their makeup. Riddick called both “rock solid” and said that each has “head coach written all over them.” He noted that both are sharp, organized, detail-oriented, know the game, prioritize relationships and communication, understand that it is not a one-size-fits-all league, understand the landscape of dealing with players and how to connect with them, as well as put them in position to succeed. Minter also turned down a second interview with the Cleveland Browns on Thursday, so it’s possible he could be closing in on Baltimore’s or another team’s opening. “The interview process itself, it’s so important for the people doing the interviewing to know exactly what it is they’re looking for and be able to recognize it when they hear it,” Riddick said. “I’ll never doubt Steve. He’s hired some pretty damn good coaches.” Polian is equally confident. “John was the right guy in the right place,” he said. “They have to find the next right guy. He may not be the person everybody in the media or the fans think is the right guy, but they don’t have to win the press conference, they have to win on the field. They know what they’re looking for. They have the template. They’re not wandering around wondering what they should emphasize. “They’ll pick the right head coach, whether [he’s an] offensive or defensive [guy]. That’s what John was. He was on nobody’s hot list. Eighteen years later, he’s the winningest coach in franchise history.” Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

We asked readers if previous head coaching experience should matter in the Ravens’ search to replace John Harbaugh. Several of the team’s reported candidates have never been a head coach, including Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter, Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver and Seahawks offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak. Other candidates, like former Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel, have led NFL franchises. Here are the results from our online poll: No — 57.3% (138 votes) Yes — 42.7% (103 votes) Here’s what some fans have said about Baltimore’s search for a new coach (answers have been edited for clarity and grammar): Hire Sean McDermott! — Will Shoken Head coaching experience should definitely matter when you have a team that is ready to win now! Just like Harbaugh should have never given somebody with no defensive coordinator experience the keys to this defense when Mike MacDonald left! — Kendric Armstrong Well, they better not come here either because we don’t have a quarterback. — Donny King No, because they were all terminated at some point. — Wayne Frazier Sr. Related Articles Ex-Ravens QB Joe Flacco discusses retirement timeline and Harbaugh firing Watch Episode 22 of the BMore Football Podcast with The Baltimore Sun’s Mike Preston and Jerry Coleman presented by Rice Law NFL teams opt for change over patience in offseason with record-tying 10 coaching changes In the NFL, winning seasons and playoff appearances don’t always equate to job security New job, same voice: Ex-Ravens coach John Harbaugh introduced by Giants View the full article

Former Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco joined the BMore Football Podcast on Wednesday, and the Super Bowl champion touched on a host of topics. Among the most interesting was a conversation about the 41-year-old’s future as an NFL player. Is retirement on the table? It doesn’t sound like Flacco is quite ready to hang up the cleats after 18 NFL seasons. “I’ve tried to come up with a good answer for everybody, but it’s a hard question to answer,” Flacco said. “I’ve played football most of my life. I think you think about an end. You do think about one day being done, but at the same time, year to year, you don’t really think about that. You’re just like, ‘Oh, offseason. Time to work out and get ready for the next season.’ And I think that for the most part, my head is still in that space.” He spent the 2025 campaign with both the Browns and Bengals, appearing in 13 games and throwing for 2,479 yards to move his career total to 48,176. He’s less than 2,000 passing yards away from becoming just the 13th player in league history to surpass 50,000. Flacco says he still enjoys competing at the highest level. “A lot of guys talk about falling out of love with the game or just kind of knowing,” Flacco said. “I don’t think that’s hit me yet.” As for his health, Flacco says he still feels well enough to play professionally despite being one of the league’s older players. He wasn’t the oldest quarterback in the division, however, as Aaron Rodgers led the Steelers to the postseason and turned 42 in December. “We talk about 40 being an old age, but in the grand scheme of things, I don’t really think you’re that old,” Flacco said. “I think we’ve had a couple guys in front of me that are the best to ever do it that have shown if you want to do it, you can still play at a high level.” Could Flacco play for Pittsburgh? During the podcast episode, Flacco was jokingly asked if he’d be interested in completing his journey around the AFC North. He’s played for the Ravens, Browns and Bengals. “There’s something about the Steelers that seems a little bit different because they were our rival for so many years,” Flacco said with a laugh, “but at the end of the day, I play football because I love it. It is a job of mine. If somebody is hiring me, that is a pretty big deal.” He’s a free agent this offseason and likely to sign a one-year deal. The Steelers need to decide on whether they want to re-sign Rodgers with a new coach, but Flacco wasn’t ruling out the possibility that he could take a snap for every AFC North franchise. “You can’t necessarily let your personal feelings on an organization just from an outsider get in the way of a professional decision,” Flacco said. He admitted it’d feel weird to put on a black and yellow jersey after spending over a decade in Baltimore, though. “I think it would be strange,” Flacco added. Related Articles Watch Episode 22 of the BMore Football Podcast with The Baltimore Sun’s Mike Preston and Jerry Coleman presented by Rice Law NFL teams opt for change over patience in offseason with record-tying 10 coaching changes In the NFL, winning seasons and playoff appearances don’t always equate to job security New job, same voice: Ex-Ravens coach John Harbaugh introduced by Giants READER POLL: Should previous head coaching experience matter for Ravens? Reaction to John Harbaugh’s firing Flacco played the first 11 seasons of his career under John Harbaugh. Only when the Ravens turned to Lamar Jackson late in the 2018 season did Harbaugh and Flacco part ways. Flacco shared his reaction to Harbaugh being fired by Baltimore after 18 seasons with the team. “I think when you’re around this league as long as everybody around here has been, I don’t know if you’re shocked by anything, but I was definitely surprised, especially to how it came out,” he said. Flacco added that he expects the veteran coach to find success in New York. “The Giants are getting one hell of a coach,” he said, “I think it’s a huge hire for them.” Have a news tip? Contact Bennett Conlin at bconlin@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/BennettConlin. View the full article

Episode 22 of the BMore Football Podcast with The Baltimore Sun’s Mike Preston and Jerry Coleman presented by Rice Law is here. Preston and Coleman are joined by Ravens legend Joe Flacco, a Super Bowl-winning quarterback with over 48,000 career passing yards during time with six NFL teams. Flacco discusses his career and his reaction to the Ravens firing John Harbaugh. You can watch the podcast weekly, posting every Tuesday during the NFL season on YouTube and The Baltimore Sun, and listen on Spotify, Apple, Amazon and iHeart. Have a news tip? Contact Mike Preston at epreston@baltsun.com, 410-332-6467 and x.com/MikePrestonSun. View the full article

By JOSH DUBOW The Green Bay Packers and Buffalo Bills faced similar decisions after another promising season ended short of the Super Bowl. The Packers opted to give coach Matt LaFleur a contract extension in hopes that he can still get the team over the hump, while the Bills fired coach Sean McDermott following an unprecedented sixth straight season that featured a playoff win and no Super Bowl appearance. LaFleur and McDermott were two of the four coaches in the league with at least seven seasons at their current spots and no Super Bowl titles with Kyle Shanahan having just finished his ninth season with San Francisco and Zac Taylor his seventh in Cincinnati. Andy Reid is the longest tenured coached having won three Super Bowl titles in 13 seasons in Kansas City. The four long-term coaches without a title had success, combining for 25 playoff wins and 21 postseason appearances without winning it all. Shanahan lost twice in the Super Bowl in the 2019 and ’23 seasons, while Taylor fell short in 2021 with the Bengals. Whether Shanahan, LaFleur or Taylor will break through and win it all at their current spots remains unknown, history shows that’s much less certain. Only one coach hired since the start of the Super Bowl era in 1966 won his first championship with a team later than his eighth season with Bill Cowher winning it all for Pittsburgh after the end of his 14th season in 2005. There have been 36 coaches to win a Super Bowl with Vince Lombardi, Weeb Ewbank, Hank Stram and Tom Landry all having already been on the job before the first Super Bowl was played. Of the other 32 winners, exactly half won their first title within their first three seasons with a team, while 12 others did it in the fourth or fifth season. The only ones besides to Cowher to take longer than five years were Pittsburgh’s Chuck Noll (year six), Reid (year seven) and the Raiders’ John Madden (year eight). There were more than 60 other coaches who had at least six seasons with a team who didn’t win it all. McDermott’s eight playoff wins are the most for any coach in the Super Bowl era who hasn’t made it to the title game and the Bills were the first team to win a playoff game in six straight seasons without reaching a Super Bowl. Shanahan’s nine playoff wins are the fourth most for a coach who hasn’t won it all. LaFleur has made the playoffs in six of seven seasons with Green Bay but has just playoff wins to show for it and hasn’t made it past the divisional round since losing his second straight NFC title game in the 2020 season against Tampa Bay. In all, there have been a record-tying 10 coaching changes this offseason, matching the previous high last reached in 2022. The only other seasons with 10 came in 2006, 1997 and 1978. Only two of the 10 coaches hired four years ago remain on the job with Kevin O’Connell about to enter his fifth season in Minnesota and Todd Bowles the same in Tampa. Overtime rules The change in the playoff overtime rules that went into place when Kansas City knocked out Buffalo in the 2021 divisional round with an opening drive touchdown had a big impact in this season’s divisional round. With both teams now guaranteed a chance at a possession even if the first team scores a touchdown, the choice of whether to take the ball or kick off in overtime is more complicated. Shanahan chose getting the ball in the first game under the new rules in Super Bowl 58 and the 49ers lost when they settled for a field goal on the opening drive and Kansas City drove for a game-ending TD — with help of a fourth-down conversion on the drive when the Chiefs knew they needed a score. There were two overtime games this weekend and both teams that won the toss opted to kick, choosing the advantage of knowing what the first team did on the opening possession. While that is sound strategy if overtime lasts only two possessions, it is a disadvantage if the game is tied after two possessions. That’s what happened in both games this weekend. Denver and the Rams both drove for winning field goals on the third possession of overtime when it was sudden death, taking advantage of the extra possession that the team that won the coin toss didn’t get. Quarterback shuffle The injury that knocked Denver’s Bo Nix out of the playoffs has created a most unusual situation with Jarrett Stidham set to start the AFC title game after not throwing a single pass during a game the last two seasons. When Stidham takes the field against New England on Sunday, it will be 749 days since his last pass attempt in the regular season or playoffs in Week 18 of the 2022 season against Las Vegas. According to the NFL research department, that will be more than double the previous longest stretch without a pass attempt by a playoff starter with Joe Webb having gone 370 days before his 2012 wild-card start for Minnesota against Green Bay. Stidham’s four career starts are the fewest ever for a QB starting in a conference championship game — one fewer than Jeff Hostetler had when he started the 1990 NFC title game for the Giants. Hostetler had four career regular-season starts and had won the divisional round when he started that win over San Francisco. The Broncos will be the ninth team to start multiple quarterbacks in the same postseason and will try to become the fifth to get wins from both. Buffalo was the last to do it when backup Frank Reich won two games in place of the injured Jim Kelly in the 1992 playoffs before Kelly returned and won the AFC title game. The Bills lost the Super Bowl to Dallas. The 1972 Dolphins, who finished a perfect 17-0, were the only Super Bowl champions to use two starting quarterbacks in the playoffs with Earl Morrall winning the first two rounds before Bob Griese returned from a broken leg to win the Super Bowl. ___ Inside the Numbers dives into NFL statistics, streaks and trends each week. For more Inside the Numbers, head here. ___ AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/NFL View the full article

By ROB MAADDI Winning isn’t everything. Winning the Super Bowl matters most. Sean McDermott became the latest coach to learn that harsh reality when the Buffalo Bills fired him after falling short in the playoffs for the seventh straight season. McDermott led the Bills to the playoffs eight times in nine seasons, but they didn’t make it past the AFC championship game, losing twice to Kansas City. Now, Buffalo looks for a coach who can help the franchise capture its first Lombardi Trophy. McDermott turned the Bills into a perennial contender, but couldn’t secure that elusive Super Bowl victory so he’s out. It happened to Tony Dungy in Tampa Bay, John Fox in Denver, Andy Reid in Philadelphia, among many others. John Harbaugh was fired two weeks ago after missing the playoffs despite a successful, 18-year run in Baltimore that included winning one Lombardi. He quickly landed with the New York Giants. Doug Pederson was fired by the Eagles following one losing season that came after three straight playoff appearances, including the franchise’s first Super Bowl title. Marty Schottenheimer was fired by the Chargers after the team went a league-best 14-2 in 2006 but lost in the divisional round. Ultimately, it comes down to winning the biggest prize. There are only 32 head coaches in the NFL and not a lot of job security. McDermott’s abrupt dismissal opens an attractive vacancy in Buffalo. The next coach inherits 2024 AP NFL MVP Josh Allen, who is one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL. Running back James Cook was the NFL’s rushing champion. The defense was No. 1 against the pass. There’s plenty of talent on the Bills. But the team needs to find the missing piece. It’s not just the head coach. General manager Brandon Beane, who was also promoted to president, needs to give Allen more playmakers. The Bills lack an elite wide receiver. It’s been their primary need since Stefon Diggs was traded to Houston after the 2023 season. Stroud’s future C.J. Stroud threw four first-half interceptions in Houston’s 28-16 loss to New England in the divisional round and the Texans failed in their seventh bid to reach the AFC championship game. After winning AP NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2023, Stroud has regressed. Still, he’s led the Texans to playoff wins in each of his first three seasons. The Texans need to give Stroud more help. The offensive line struggled and the run game was nonexistent. Stroud was also missing standout receiver Nico Collins against the Patriots and lost tight end Dalton Schultz early in the game. “The quarterback position is going to get the most eyes, most attention. We understand that,” Texans coach DeMeco Ryans said. “In this league, that’s what it is. C.J. understands that as well. Throughout the season, I thought he did a really nice job of coming in and learning a new offense, new scheme. I thought he picked it up well. We got better as the season went along and he made some plays to allow us to win a lot of football games as well. I’m not going to let the bad plays there in that game (against the Patriots) dictate to me who C.J. is. I know who C.J. is. I know what he’s capable of doing. “We just keep looking to get better. No one feels worse about the situation than C.J. He feels bad for the team. He feels like he let the team down, and I just told him, ‘Keep your head up and you keep moving forward.’ We all want it better. We can’t go back in that game right now and run it back and play it again. We just learn from it. What do you learn from it? That’s my main message to him is, what do you learn from that and how do you make that a priority and getting it fixed and improving and getting better?” ___ On Football analyzes the biggest topics in the NFL from week to week. For more On Football analysis, head here. ___ AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl View the full article

John Harbaugh stood before the podium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, wearing a navy blue suit and accented burgundy tie, introducing Giants fans to the personality and Harbaugh-isms that Ravens fans know well. He played all the hits. Harbaugh promised to attack his new job with “an enthusiasm unknown to mankind” — a long-standing catchphrase in the Harbaugh family. In his opening remarks, delivering something of a mission statement, he assured everything will be about “the team, the team, the team.” That’s another classic Harbaugh line. He thanked his dad, Jack, for instilling that one. The 63-year-old coach who spent 18 years in Baltimore, going 193-124 and winning a Super Bowl before he was fired earlier this month, sounded ready to embrace the opportunity in New York. Very little of the roughly 20-minute news conference was spent rehashing his time with the Ravens. Harbaugh extended a “profoouunnd” thank you to Ravens leadership, specifically owner Steve Bisciotti and executive vice president Ozzie Newsome as well as coaches and players. He did not mention general manager Eric DeCosta by name. Then Harbaugh turned the page to the Giants. In the wee hours of Jan. 14, shortly before midnight, news broke that the two parties were closing in on a deal to make Harbaugh the next head coach of, as he lovingly calls them, the “New York Football Giants.” It took three more days — which included a fancy dinner and all-day meetings to iron out chain of command restructuring — to get that five-year deal across the finish line. Harbaugh said there was never a question about taking a new job versus a year off. He wanted to get back in the ring with a team he saw genuine potential in. “I wanted this job,” Harbaugh said. “To be on the biggest stage in the biggest sport. I know the challenges. I know the expectations. I know the fans are hungry for a winner. We’re here with one mission: to earn the right to be called the world champions in New York.” The road diverged in front of him includes two paths. Each has already been laid, and one sounds much better than the other. Like Harbaugh, former Seahawks coach Pete Carroll enjoyed great success in Seattle, where he won a Super Bowl. This time last year, the Raiders hired him to bring a mark of stability to a listless organization. The 74-year-old Carroll won three games and was promptly fired after one season. Harbaugh would much prefer the other road, the won blazed by his mentor, Andy Reid. Harbaugh spent a decade as Reid’s special teams coordinator in Philadelphia before the Ravens hired him as a first-time head coach. Five years later, Reid was fired by the Eagles and quickly hired by the Kansas City Chiefs. Since then, he’s won three Super Bowls and appeared in two more. “We’ll sign up for that deal right now,” Harbaugh laughed, met with some applause. Those two have been in some level of communication during the less than two weeks Harbaugh was unemployed. Reid is a man of few words, his mentee said Tuesday. “His four words to me,” Harbaugh said, “were ‘change can be good.’” For Baltimore, the feeling was mutual. “We love John like a brother, and it was really the most difficult decision that we made, but we made it,” Bisciotti said last week, “We want the Ravens to succeed. I felt it was the right time to make the change. … I think we had run our course.” Bisciotti knew Harbaugh would be the “the most sought-after coach in years.” That fact, affirmed when Harbaugh became the first head coach off the board this cycle, alleviated Bisciotti’s worries about letting go of his longtime friend. On Tuesday, there were plenty of questions about the roster he’s inheriting, to which Harbaugh assured his confidence in their ability to be a playoff team by next year led by rising sophomore quarterback Jaxson Dart. Harbaugh told his brother and Los Angeles Chargers coach, Jim, to “breathe easy” now that they’re in different conferences. Backup quarterback Jameis Winston got a shoutout for his 2024 upset win over the Ravens. “It was a great game — for you,” Harbaugh said, pointing to the back of the room. He also indicated the interview process for hiring coordinators will begin as soon as Wednesday. The Giants will scour the league for candidates. That includes “people in Baltimore,” Harbaugh said, alluding to his former offensive coordinator Todd Monken and defensive coordinator Zach Orr. Both have reportedly been in talks with the Giants. Related Articles READER POLL: Should previous head coaching experience matter for Ravens? 2026 NFL mock draft: Early predictions for all 32 first-round picks Ravens head coach search: Where things stand, and what’s next Josh Tolentino: Dear Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti … | COMMENTARY Mike Preston: Ravens’ next coach needs to be a CEO, not a phony | COMMENTARY If the YouTube chat section on the live stream of Harbaugh’s introductory news conference is any indication, the excitement in East Rutherford, New Jersey is palpable. Giants fans see a bright light at the end of this decade-plus-long tunnel, having won a single playoff game in 14 years. Harbaugh didn’t nail down one secret ingredient to his success in Baltimore or how that might translate up Interstate-95. “No two places are the same,” he said. But his relationships in New York and what he saw on tape and the conversations he had quickly convinced him the Giants, the “most iconic franchise in the biggest sport,” as he called them, were the right move for his next chapter. For Ravens fans eager to meet their new coach, seeing Harbaugh trade in purple and black for blue and red will take some getting used to. Have a news tip? Contact Sam Cohn at scohn@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/samdcohn.x.com. New York Giants coach John Harbaugh poses for a photo after being introduced during a news conference at the team's training facility on Tuesday. (Adam Hunger/AP) View the full article

It’s been two weeks since the Ravens fired coach John Harbaugh after 18 seasons in Baltimore. The franchise is still searching for its next leader. The Ravens have interviewed more than a dozen candidates, including a few who have received second, in-person interviews. Owner Steve Bisciotti, during his rare news conference last week, said, “I am very intrigued by coaches that were the hottest offensive and defensive coordinators — five, six, seven years ago in their cycles — and got jobs and went to teams that were noncompetitive and didn’t have a quarterback.” Should previous head coaching experience matter for Baltimore? We want to hear from you. After you vote, leave a comment and we might use your take in The Baltimore Sun. The Baltimore Sun reader poll is an unscientific survey in which website users volunteer their opinions on the subject of the poll. To read the results of previous reader polls, click here. View the full article

The college football season is over. Now it’s time for the NFL draft. Here are The Baltimore Sun’s early projections for the first round, which begins April 23 in Pittsburgh: 1. Las Vegas Raiders: Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana This pairing feels destined given Mendoza’s success and the Raiders’ need for a franchise quarterback. Perhaps the happy-go-lucky Heisman Trophy winner and national champion can help uplift a team desperate for a spark and new leadership. 2. New York Jets: Arvell Reese, EDGE, Ohio State Quarterback Dante Moore’s decision to return to Oregon opens up a world of possibilities for the Jets. There’s no clear-cut top prospect, so why not bet on Reese’s traits and versatility as an off-ball linebacker and pass rusher? 3. Arizona Cardinals: Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami The Cardinals have a hole at right tackle with Jonah Williams entering free agency. Mauigoa can step in and form a promising young pair of offensive line bookends with 2023 first-round pick Paris Johnson Jr. 4. Tennessee Titans: Rueben Bain Jr., EDGE, Miami The Titans could choose a receiver here to pair with quarterback Cam Ward, but the defense shouldn’t be overlooked, either. Adding a powerful rusher like Bain next to big bodies Jeffery Simmons and T’Vondre Sweat on the defensive line would be a matchup nightmare for opposing offenses. 5. New York Giants: Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State In a draft without a lot of elite talent at the top, Downs might be the best overall prospect. He doesn’t play a premium position, but his instincts and impact both on and off the field as a leader make him just the kind of player that new coach John Harbaugh is looking for to build his program. 6. Cleveland Browns: Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State If the Browns want to get a true evaluation of quarterbacks Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel, they need to surround them with more talent. Tyson, whose brother Jaylon plays in the NBA for the Cleveland Cavaliers, is an electric playmaker who could inject a shot of adrenaline into the offense. 7. Washington Commanders: David Bailey, EDGE, Texas Tech It feels like “best defender available” for coach Dan Quinn and Washington after a disappointing season following an NFC championship game appearance. Bailey is a powerful rusher who can help collapse the pocket in a way the Commanders often failed to do this past season. 8. New Orleans Saints: Spencer Fano, OT, Utah There will be plenty of calls for Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love or a wide receiver here, but protecting quarterback Tyler Shough should be a priority. Fano can step in immediately at guard and bolster a promising offensive line that already includes first-rounders Kelvin Banks Jr. and Taliese Fuaga at tackle. 9. Kansas City Chiefs: Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State Tyler Kelce might retire, Rashee Rice can’t seem to stay on the field and Marquise Brown is headed for free agency. The Chiefs need to give Patrick Mahomes another playmaker, and Tate is a perfect fit given his route-running polish and veteran savvy. 10. Cincinnati Bengals: Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State The Bengals simply need a better defense to have any hope of competing for championships with quarterback Joe Burrow. Styles is a standout athlete and respected leader who can step in and be a true difference-maker from Day 1. 11. Miami Dolphins: Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee New coach Jeff Hafley is going to prioritize fixing Miami’s defense. That should start in the secondary, which has had trouble at cornerback for years. McCoy missed all of the 2025 season because of a torn ACL, but he looked like a first-round pick in 2024. 12. Dallas Cowboys: Keldric Faulk, EDGE, Auburn Dallas bolstered its defensive front with the midseason trade for Quinnen Williams, but several of its top pass rushers are hitting free agency. Faulk is a versatile player who would pair well with promising rookie Donovan Ezeiruaku on the edge. 13. Los Angeles Rams (via Atlanta): Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU The Rams have built one of the league’s best defenses through the draft, but the secondary could use some more help. Delane, a Silver Spring native and former Spalding star, was one of the top cornerbacks in the country this past season with a 89.1 Pro Football Focus grade in man coverage. 14. Ravens: Peter Woods, DT, Clemson The Ravens already seem to be planning for a future without star defensive lineman Nnamdi Madubuike after re-signing Travis Jones and John Jenkins. Woods didn’t meet high expectations in 2025, but he has the talent to be a standout pass rusher and run defender in the middle of the defense. Ravens executive vice president and general manager Eric DeCosta, shown earlier this month, could choose to bolster Baltimore's defensive line during the first round of the NFL draft. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff) 15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon With wide receiver Mike Evans’ future uncertain and tight end Cade Otton hitting free agency, there might be an opening for another pass catcher to complement Chris Godwin and Emeka Egbuka. Sadiq has the makeup to be a game-changing player if he can reach his full potential. 16. New York Jets (via Indianapolis): Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama The Jets and coach Aaron Glenn need to keep taking chances at quarterback until they find one. While Simpson didn’t hold up well under pressure in college, he showed flashes of brilliance and has the pedigree of a former five-star prospect. 17. Detroit Lions: Caleb Lomu, OT, Utah Left tackle Taylor Decker isn’t getting any younger, and the interior of the offensive line wasn’t very impressive in 2025. The Lions might plan ahead with Lomu, who could be molded into the tackle of the future while competing immediately at guard. 18. Minnesota Vikings: Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson It always feels like the Vikings always need cornerback help, but that just means they still haven’t found a keeper yet. Terrell, the younger brother of Falcons star A.J., is a highly competitive player with a nose for the ball. 19. Carolina Panthers: Kayden McDonald, DT, Ohio State The Panthers showed progress in pushing the Rams to the brink in the wild-card round, but the defense must improve for the franchise to take the next step. McDonald and Derrick Brown would be an intimidating duo to deal with at the point of attack. 20. Dallas Cowboys (via Green Bay): Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame OK, let’s finally give Jerry Jones another first-round running back. Even if Javonte Williams re-signs, there’s a strong case to be made that Love’s big-play ability is exactly what Dallas’ offense needs. 21. Pittsburgh Steelers: Brandon Cisse, CB, South Carolina The Steelers are entering a new era without Mike Tomlin, but defense should remain a focal point for the next coach. Pittsburgh needs another young building block in the secondary alongside cornerback Joey Porter Jr. 22. Los Angeles Chargers: Olaivavega Ioane, G, Penn State This pairing just makes too much sense. The Chargers’ inability to protect Justin Herbert in the wild-card round highlighted the importance of reinforcing the offensive line, particularly the interior. “Vega” could step in immediately at guard next to star tackles Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater. 23. Philadelphia Eagles: Kadyn Proctor, OT/G, Alabama A 6-foot-7, 360-pound lineman who needs some refinement? Sounds like an Eagles pick. Offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland has made a living on building up prospects like Proctor, who can take over at guard if Tyler Steen struggles or Landon Dickerson has more injury trouble. 24. Cleveland Browns (via Jacksonville): Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia The offensive line is a major concern for whoever becomes the next Browns coach, as all five starters are entering the open market. Freeling has the potential to be a long-term fixture at left tackle. Related Articles Titans agree to hire Robert Saleh as coach as they seek to speed up rebuild Dolphins hire former Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley as coach Ravens head coach search: Where things stand, and what’s next NFL again faces questions about the definition of a catch DC, Kansas stadium deals spark backlash over taxpayer costs 25. Chicago Bears: Caleb Banks, DT, Florida The Bears’ defense was one of the worst in the league against the run this past season. The 6-6, 335-pound Banks is a big interior presence who has flashed some pass-rushing upside. 26. Buffalo Bills: Denzel Boston, WR, Washington Although new president Brandon Beane is still in charge, the Bills can’t ignore their shortcomings at wide receiver any longer. Boston is a big target (6-4, 210 pounds) who can run smooth routes and win contested catches. 27. San Francisco 49ers: Makai Lemon, WR, USC With Brandon Aiyuk unlikely to play another snap in San Francisco, 2024 first-round pick Ricky Pearsall struggling to stay healthy, Jauan Jennings entering free agency and tight George Kittle out for months with a torn Achilles tendon, the 49ers simply need someone to throw the ball to. Lemon works best as a slot receiver with his speed and reliable hands. 28. Houston Texans: Christen Miller, DT, Georgia The Texans have the league’s best defensive end pairing in Danielle Hunter and Will Anderson Jr., but there’s room for improvement along the interior. Miller is a stout run defender who can keep offenses honest while Hunter and Anderson wreak havoc. 29. Los Angeles Rams: Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo Rams safety Kam Curl enters free agency after making the game-changing interception against Caleb Williams in overtime of the divisional round. Adding a cornerback and a rangy deep safety like McNeil-Warren would help keep Los Angeles’ championship window open if Matthew Stafford returns. 30. New England Patriots: Cashius Howell, EDGE, Texas A&M Harold Landry III and K’Lavon Chaisson helped take New England back to the AFC championship game, but the Patriots could use a young pass rusher. Howell is undersized relative to NFL edge defenders, but his traits and production are worth betting on. 31. Denver Broncos: CJ Allen, LB, Georgia Linebackers Alex Singleton and Justin Strnad are entering free agency and Dre Greenlaw isn’t a safe bet to play a full season given his injury history. Otherwise, there aren’t a lot of weaknesses on the Broncos’ roster. Allen is a sure tackler and reliable presence in the middle of the defense. 32. Seattle Seahawks: Emmanuel Pregnon, G, Oregon Seattle’s 2024 first-round pick Grey Zabel looks like a long-term starter at guard, but there’s room for improvement on the interior. Pregnon posted elite pass-blocking numbers for the Ducks and would help further solidify the protection in front of Sam Darnold. Have a news tip? Contact C.J. Doon at cdoon@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/CJDoon. View the full article

Welcome to the wild west, NFL coaches edition. Former Ravens coach John Harbaugh was the most significant name to go first, and he has already landed his next gig. Then came now-former Steelers coach Mike Tomlin, who stepped down after Pittsburgh was bounced from the playoffs at home by the Houston Texans in the wild-card round. And on Monday, the Bills fired Sean McDermott less than 48 hours after Buffalo suffered a crushing overtime loss to the Broncos in Denver. McDermott’s ousting marked the 10th coaching change among the league’s 32 teams in one season — the most in a single cycle since before the 2022 season and tied for most all-time along with the offseasons in 1978, 1997 and 2006, per ESPN. When there is this much turnover there are bound to be teams that cast a wide net in their coaching search. Baltimore is among them, with now 16 candidates having been interviewed for its opening after Jacksonville Jaguars defensive coordinator Anthony Campanile became the latest on the docket as of Monday morning. That’s also around 10 more than the last time owner Steve Bisciotti went through this process after firing Brian Billick in 2008 before ultimately deciding on Jason Garrett then calling an audible to Harbaugh after Garrett turned down the job, though the list will begin to narrow in the days ahead. What are the Ravens ultimately looking for? “We want leaders. We want the best leader we can find,” Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta said last week in Owings Mills. “We want somebody who’s going to hold the players accountable. We want somebody who’s an expert in Xs and Os, and we want somebody who the players can relate to, but also somebody that’s going to be firm and continue the culture that we’ve built, which we think is important.” The list has run the gamut, from former head coaches to ascendant assistants — and one candidate they interviewed, former Cleveland Browns coach Kevin Stefanski, has already been hired by another team (Atlanta Falcons). It’s also an appealing situation for job seekers, given a talented roster that includes two-time NFL Most Valuable Player and quarterback Lamar Jackson and an organizational reputation that has been the envy of others for years. So where do things stand and where do they go from here? Less than 48 hours after Harbaugh was fired on Jan. 6, the Ravens began conducting their initial interviews, first virtually with Broncos Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph then quarterbacks coach/pass game coordinator Davis Webb on Jan. 8. Because the Broncos won on Saturday, though, Baltimore won’t be able to conduct in-person interviews with either — if they are finalists — until Denver is eliminated. If the Broncos and backup quarterback Jarrett Stidham beat the New England Patriots in Sunday’s AFC championship game, the Ravens can meet with either in the bye week between the conference title game and the Super Bowl. Others they have interviewed include: Seattle Seahawks offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak (Jan. 9) Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator Matt Nagy (Jan. 11) Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver and former Commanders offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury (Jan. 12) Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores (Tuesday) Los Angeles Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter and Browns defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz (Wednesday) Former Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel (Thursday) Los Angeles Rams defensive coordinator Chris Shula and Rams pass game coordinator Nathan Scheelhaase (Saturday) Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady and San Francisco 49ers defensive coordinator Robert Saleh (Sunday) Campanile (Monday) Only Stefanski, Kingsbury and McDaniel did their interviews in person after being fired from their previous team. Of that group, Baltimore will only have to wait to talk to Kubiak, Shula and Scheelhaase with their respective teams still playing. The Ravens are also bringing in Weaver for a second, in-person interview on Tuesday, according to NFL Network. Doing so would fulfill the league’s Rooney Rule requirement of in-person interviews with at least two external minority candidates, with McDaniel having been the other. Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti, left, and executive vice president/general manager Eric DeCosta are in the process of narrowing down their list of coaching candidates. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff) But with that number also reaching 16 — a total that DeCosta mentioned last week — it’s possible that the Ravens are now ready to winnow the list to a handful of finalists. Of course, there could be another unknown candidate or two they are looking at or have even talked to with neither side letting that information get out. Whatever the total number of interviewees is, they are being interviewed by DeCosta, along with executive vice president Ozzie Newsome and president Sashi Brown. Others in the organization are typically part of the process as well. Once they are down to a handful of finalists, the interviews will be more extensive and involve more people, including Bisciotti and possibly Jackson. Bisciotti has already spoken with Jackson, as has DeCosta, and he has been invited to be a part of the process if he wishes. Related Articles Josh Tolentino: Dear Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti … | COMMENTARY Mike Preston: Ravens’ next coach needs to be a CEO, not a phony | COMMENTARY Why did ex-Ravens coach John Harbaugh’s deal with Giants take so long? Now what for Ravens? 5 biggest offseason questions, from coach to NFL draft Josh Tolentino: After misfires, Ravens GM Eric DeCosta is in uncharted waters | COMMENTARY Though Bisciotti made it clear that Jackson has no power in the ultimate decision, having the face of the franchise involved is of particular interest with the expectation to win a championship sooner than later. Still, the process could take some time, particularly if the coach they want to hire ends up in the Super Bowl on Feb. 8. Already, DeCosta has said he is treating it like a three-week draft, so that timetable would put a decision around the end of this month. In terms of what they are prioritizing, Bisciotti made it clear that he is not eliminating a former coach with a losing record because of circumstances. He also said he does not have a preference between an offensive or defensive coordinator. What both Bisciotti and DeCosta did make clear is the need to be able to connect with Jackson. Of the 15 available candidates, seven are offense-focused: Webb, Kubiak, Nagy, Kingsbury, McDaniel, Scheelhaase and Brady. The rest are defense-oriented. Seven — Joseph, Nagy, Kingsbury, Flores, Schwartz, McDaniel, Saleh — have also been head coaches. Only Nagy and McDaniel had winning records. But the Ravens aren’t looking at the next coach in a vacuum, either. They’re looking at filling the role with the offensive and defensive coordinator positions in mind as well, so if a candidate is able to bring in someone for one or both of those positions to marry the group together, that could be a factor in who the next coach is. It’s possible, too, that they have looked at college coaches, though none have been revealed in the interview process thus far. Whatever direction Baltimore decides to go in the coming days and weeks, though, one thing is clear: the expectation to capture the organization’s third Vince Lombardi trophy and first since after the 2012 season. “Well, it took Billick two years, and John five [years], maybe I’ll give this guy six,” Bisciotti said. “I hope we pick the kind of guy that’s going to get us there. I think we have a roster that’s capable of it. I think we have a GM that’s capable of making that roster better on the fly, and yes, I’ll be patient to that point. I’d probably give him five or six years — as long as I like everything else I see in him.” Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. Mike McDaniel, who went 35-33 over four seasons as the Dolphins' coach, is one of more than a dozen candidates for the Ravens' head coach opening. (Rebecca Blackwell/AP) View the full article

Dear Steve Bisciotti, Come back soon. You explained you stopped making yourself publicly available because, “Like Seinfeld, I ran out of good material.” But following Tuesday’s rare news conference, it’s clear the material was never the issue. It had been a while since anyone heard directly from you in this setting. Long enough that this felt more like a refreshing reintroduction. For many fans, and plenty of people outside Baltimore, it probably was one. After all, you hadn’t spoken to any local media since 2022, and you hadn’t held a news conference at The Castle since 2018, before Lamar Jackson was even drafted. When an owner steps into public view after a disappointing 8-9 season that featured the worst home record (3-6) the Ravens have ever had in the team’s 30-year history, it offers the opportunity to buy credibility with a disgruntled fan base. Especially after a year that began with Super Bowl expectations ended with empty seats and a glaring postseason absence. It must’ve been difficult to brave the podium one week after firing 18-year coach John Harbaugh. In response to the first question you received, you addressed the elephant in the room. “Factually, we led the league in giving up big leads in the fourth quarter. It’s not something that winning organizations do. We have underperformed based on our seeding in the playoffs, very disappointing. [There were] a lot of our great players involved making mistakes that they don’t make during the regular season very often. But I just thought it was something that in the last 10 years, we’ve won the third-most games in the NFL, and yet people were saying we were underachievers, and so we were, and we had to own that. “I wasn’t 100% sure [on firing Harbaugh] until, really, after the [Steelers] loss, and I fell on my instincts, and whatever I was feeling was right. I woke up Monday, and I was pretty sure that I was going to do it. … I made the decision, and it was a hard one. As you all know, in your life, timing is never right. You can’t say that timing is perfect in anything. But I got to the point that I didn’t believe that I would feel regret after I made that decision. “That’s what instinct is. When you finally get to the point that you’re pretty damn sure that you are not going to regret the decision a day or a week later, then that’s the time to make the decision.” There was no sugarcoating nor deflection over your meeting with local reporters. Related Articles Mike Preston: Ravens’ next coach needs to be a CEO, not a phony | COMMENTARY Why did ex-Ravens coach John Harbaugh’s deal with Giants take so long? Now what for Ravens? 5 biggest offseason questions, from coach to NFL draft Josh Tolentino: After misfires, Ravens GM Eric DeCosta is in uncharted waters | COMMENTARY With John Harbaugh going to Giants, which Ravens might he target? You directly acknowledged all the fourth-quarter collapses the Ravens suffered under the direction of your close friend. You also revealed everything that went into the decision and ultimately, your instinct to fire Harbaugh. Additionally, you discussed the importance of Jackson’s voice and cooperation in this pivotal offseason. Heck, you even outlined your potential exit plan. That level of candor stood out. It was refreshing to hear your accountability and honesty. National pundits raved about your rare hour-long availability session, too. ESPN’s Peter Schrager called the news conference “transparent, illuminating and a master class.” CBS Sports’ Jason McCourty said you are exactly what players want in an owner. NFL Network’s Judy Battista said it’s “too bad” you don’t speak more often because “you’re very good at it.” When fans needed it most, you stepped up to the plate. Bravo. That might have been the most important part. It felt like there was something instructive in the way you answered questions, not just about past failures, but also with what comes next in the ever-important coaching search. In many ways, you reset expectations for Baltimore’s next coach. Harbaugh did it splendidly with great results for 18 seasons. This is a highly sought-after position, one that requires comfort under scrutiny, with tough questions and with accountability that must reflect across the locker room and beyond. When the owner is willing to answer for it, everyone else in the organization must be able to do the same. Like the rest of your fans, you witnessed up-close the same fourth-quarter collapses, felt the same frustration as attendance wavered late into the season and wrestled with the same doubts and questions about the direction of the franchise. Asked why you no longer make yourself regularly available, you directed attention toward your chief employees, primarily general manager Eric DeCosta, making football decisions. Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti, left, and general manager Eric DeCosta fist-bump during last week's news conference. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff) “I just always felt like if I put these guys in charge, and they got us to the playoffs. Look, I appreciate the local media … I just got to the point that I didn’t see the benefit of sitting up here and dissecting losing in the divisional round. To me, it wasn’t fair, because it was the leaders who were making the decisions that were going to give you the best information. “So, I just bailed. I just kind of said to you guys, ‘When we don’t make the playoffs, I’ll be there for you, but when we make the playoffs, I’m just going to leave it to my specialists to explain it all to you and what their plan is [moving] forward.'” Last week, though, showed there’s plenty of space for both. There’s room for DeCosta to explain the plan, and there’s certainly additional room for when it falls apart, for the owner to step in and address what went wrong and what lies ahead. Consider this column an invitation. Mr. Bisciotti, please come back soon. It helps everyone involved. Have a news tip? Contact Josh Tolentino at jtolentino@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200, x.com/JCTSports and instagram.com/JCTSports. View the full article

If the Ravens made a miscalculation when they hired John Harbaugh 18 years ago, they should make the same mistake again in 2026. All Harbaugh did was win Super Bowl XLVII, post 13 winning seasons with a career record of 193-124 (including playoffs), win six AFC North titles, advance to four AFC championship games and have only three losing seasons. That’s it. In contrast, 12 teams have never won a Super Bowl, including the Bills, Vikings, Titans and Browns. So, it’s of vital importance that Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti, 65, get this new coach hire right, not only because he probably plans on selling the team within the immediate future, but the organization needs some staying power. Some, even Bisciotti, have suggested that he hire someone like San Francisco defensive coordinator Robert Saleh or Miami’s former coach Mike McDaniel, coaches who failed at previous spots because they didn’t have the right pieces in place. No, thank you. There have already been enough videos of Saleh flexing in tight T-shirts and McDaniel looking totally clueless on the sidelines. The expectation is that Bisciotti will hire another CEO type, much like he did when he hired Harbaugh, who had the same energy, slick-talking approach and well-groomed look as Bisciotti had when he started Aerotek in 1983. They had other common traits, such as putting family first and being extremely loyal to those they worked with, according to a close friend. That’s what is needed with almost every NFL organization these days. You need a Mike Vrabel-type. Forget that he was a linebacker in the league from 1997 through 2010. Vrabel, 50, brought energy to the Patriots by setting the tone inside the building and changing the culture. He also inherited a second-year quarterback, Drake Maye, who, by all accounts, is willing to work, which gives them more of an edge. More importantly, Vrabel gets along well with his players, though that 6-foot-4, 261-pound frame helps him relate to them. Vrabel is still hungry. He won three Super Bowls with the Patriots as a player, and as a coach, he led Tennessee to three consecutive playoff appearances, but no Super Bowl appearances. Vrabel was coached by Bill Belichick in his prime, but the days of Tom Landry and Vince Lombardi are gone. That’s when a coach could look at film, install a game plan, win or lose, and then go home. The world has changed. Players have podcasts and scroll through social media all day, and coaches have to be aware of what is going on outside of the organization as well as inside. They stay on or monitor most radio and TV stations. Betting on NFL games has become legal now, and it will be a bigger problem in the future. Then there is show time. After every defensive turnover, players showboat as if they are on Entertainment Tonight. Contract negotiations? Coaches are involved in player contract talks, and even Harbaugh reportedly had to work out an agreement with the New York Giants over the weekend in which he didn’t report directly to the general manager, but to the owner. That’s standard now. The business has changed. Owners are more impatient, too. There was a time when coaches got four or five years to build a program. Now, it’s down to one with the recent firings of Urban Meyer in Jacksonville (2021), Houston’s David Culley (2021), Carolina’s Frank Reich (2023), New England’s Jerod Mayo (2024), and Las Vegas’ Antonio Pierce (2024) and Pete Carroll (2025). Related Articles Josh Tolentino: Dear Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti … | COMMENTARY Why did ex-Ravens coach John Harbaugh’s deal with Giants take so long? Now what for Ravens? 5 biggest offseason questions, from coach to NFL draft Josh Tolentino: After misfires, Ravens GM Eric DeCosta is in uncharted waters | COMMENTARY With John Harbaugh going to Giants, which Ravens might he target? Some local fans prefer a head coach with offensive experience like McDaniel or Buffalo’s Joe Brady, but I want one with an extensive defensive background. Defense travels, and that was on display for many years in Baltimore with the likes of middle linebacker Ray Lewis, safety Ed Reed and outside linebacker Terrell Suggs. The advantage here is that a coach can always find an offensive coordinator, especially given the recent rule changes tilt in the offense’s favor. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell wants a 35-31 outcome every game because he believes that puts people into the seats. That’s true to some degree, but the Ravens already have a star quarterback in Lamar Jackson and one of the best modern-day running backs in Derrick Henry. It comes back to the basic principle of having balance on both sides of the interior lines. The Ravens had trouble in pass protection for Jackson, who wants to throw more and run less. They had virtually no pass rush, and the secondary was in total disarray in coverage. If you look at the best team in the NFL right now, it’s probably Seattle, even though the Seahawks have Sam Darnold at quarterback. But they also have balance on both sides of the ball. Last year, Philadelphia won the Super Bowl because of its superior interior line play. Again, it’s all about balance. Despite the NFL becoming more entertainment than substance, the Ravens don’t need a coach running up and down the sidelines like the Jets’ Aaron Glenn or Lions’ Dan Campbell talking about biting knee caps. I didn’t want former Cleveland coach Kevin Stefanski, who was hired by the Atlanta Falcons on Saturday, despite having only two winning seasons with the “Clowns” and compiling a 46-56 overall record. Phonies shouldn’t apply. The Ravens need a CEO-type of coach who can delegate and moderate in the modern NFL. That’s what the league has become and is all about. The game hasn’t changed, but the players have, and so has just about everything else. The league has gone corporate. Have a news tip? Contact Mike Preston at epreston@baltsun.com, 410-332-6467 and x.com/MikePrestonSun. View the full article

Shortly before midnight on Wednesday, ESPN’s Adam Schefter made the report that was confirmed by The Baltimore Sun. John Harbaugh was set to become the New York Giants’ next head coach. It took three more days — and a series of confusing updates without an official announcement — but New York and the former Ravens coach finally reached a five-year agreement Sunday, according to multiple reports. As part of the deal, Harbaugh will report directly to Giants ownership, Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated reported. The arrangement marks a notable concession by the organization, deviating from its typical structure. The Giants are primarily owned by John Mara and Steve Tisch. “This is the New York Giants,” Harbaugh told ESPN. “I’m proud and honored to the head coach of this historic franchise, and especially excited to work with the Mara and Tisch families. But most of all, I can’t wait to get started with the great players on this football team to see what we can accomplish together.” ESPN’s Giants beat reporter Jordan Raanan described the stalemate Friday as “working through organizational and operational issues.” It’s important to remember that Harbaugh reported directly to owner Steve Bisciotti during his 18 years in Baltimore. That structure looks different in New York, according to The Athletic’s Dan Duggan, as general manager Joe Schoen holds significant authority and also has faced heavy criticism for his managerial approach. A recent precedent existed. Just one year ago, Jacksonville coach Liam Coen required the firing of general manager Trent Baalke as a condition of accepting the job, a move that preceded the Jaguars’ first playoff appearance in three years. Harbaugh met with Schoen Wednesday at Elia Mediterranean Restaurant in East Rutherford, New Jersey, during his pitch to join the organization. But he had already reportedly sidestepped Schoen, holding an “informal lunch meeting” at his house with Giants senior player personnel executive Chris Mara days before his first official meeting with the general manager, according to Ian O’Connor of The Athletic. “There were plenty of things to figure out, including structure, how things were going work in John Harbaugh and general manager Joe Schoen,” NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport said. “This was about John Harbaugh getting more power than they typically give a coach,” added Mike Garafolo of the network. “Even general manager Joe Schoen understood that.” Schefter indicated in his initial report that work remained, noting that “contract numbers still are being negotiated.” He later added that “there are still some details to work out,” clarifying a day later that the holdup wasn’t about money — “it’s over language.” By Saturday morning, Schefter reported the deal was still being worked on but trending toward completion, with optimism Harbaugh could be introduced Tuesday. Related Articles Now what for Ravens? 5 biggest offseason questions, from coach to NFL draft Josh Tolentino: After misfires, Ravens GM Eric DeCosta is in uncharted waters | COMMENTARY With John Harbaugh going to Giants, which Ravens might he target? READERS RESPOND: Some Ravens fans want Klint Kubiak as the next coach NFL coach matchmaker: Predicting landing spots for all 8 available jobs Pat Leonard of the New York Daily News reported Friday that many within the Giants’ organization had expected Harbaugh to want Schoen to be gone or to reduce his power in a new organizational structure. Leonard reported that several internal departments — including the training room, video and public relations staffs — had historically been insulated from regime changes, and that removing long-tenured personnel with ties to ownership was among the most sensitive issues within the organization. Any effort by Harbaugh to install his own staff, Leonard wrote, would have required disrupting some of the most protected positions behind the scenes in East Rutherford — a dynamic that risked creating internal friction. Raanan’s reporting reinforced Leonard’s depiction of a potential power struggle, suggesting the delay was less about contractual fine print and more about how much authority Harbaugh would ultimately have inside the building. Raanan reported that people with experience in both Baltimore and New York consistently described the Ravens as operating on a different organizational plane, citing advantages in analytics, training, video, medical and personnel infrastructure. Baltimore’s willingness to invest heavily across departments had long served as an internal benchmark leaguewide. Several people familiar with Harbaugh’s thinking, Raanan reported, believed he was unlikely to accept a situation that did not allow him to replicate that model — a stance that ultimately shaped the final agreement. The deal is finally done. And Harbaugh’s entrance into the Big Apple came with the kind of dramatic flair the city is known for. Have a news tip? Contact Michael Howes at mhowes@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/Mikephowes. View the full article

Life moves fast in the NFL, especially when the games slow, or more specifically because they do. Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti fired John Harbaugh – the winningest and just the third coach in team history – on Jan. 6. On Thursday, less than eight days later, Harbaugh agreed to become the 24th coach of the New York Giants. By the time Bisciotti spoke with reporters this past Tuesday, Baltimore had also already interviewed eight candidates, with at least another eight or nine to come before the approaching weekend is over. From there, the Ravens will take their list of 15 to 20 and narrow it to four or five finalists. Because Bisciotti, who will turn 66 in April, prefers at this stage of life to treat owning the team, in his words, more like a hobby than putting in the 70 hours a week he used to early in his ownership he leaves the day-to-day to general manager Eric DeCosta, executive vice president and former general manager Ozzie Newsome and team president Sashi Brown. So when it comes to who will be the Ravens’ next coach, the billionaire who resides in Jupiter, Florida, will leave that decision mostly to that triumvirate. “When they call me in for these five [finalists], I’m going to already know why they love them,” Bisciotti said. “I’m going to come back, and I’m going to give just them my honest opinions, my reservations – if there are any – on individuals that may be a red flag that they didn’t see. So, I would hope that when I spend a lot of time with these people, that I might unearth some things; which I think I’m really good at unearthing some details that maybe others missed. I think that I’d like to feed that into them, and if it changes their top five, then great. And if it doesn’t, I want these guys to be partners.” In terms of a timeline on that decision, DeCosta said he views the process like a three-week NFL draft. With that as a backdrop, it’s likely the Ravens would come to their decision sometime around the conference championship games. The rest of that coach’s staff would then be filled out sometime on either side of the Super Bowl on Feb. 8. Who that coach will be is, of course, the biggest question Baltimore is facing this offseason. It’s also one of many paramount ones. Here are the five most significant questions Bisciotti’s braintrust must answer in the weeks and months ahead. Who will be the next coach? One of the more insightful things Bisciotti said is that he is not scared off by a coach who has a losing record, noting that the circumstances around the situation have to be taken into account. “I could say I’m disqualifying coaches with losing records, but I think you have to remember that they were the hottest coaches in their cycle, and they got jobs and they got tough jobs, and I don’t think we have a tough job,” he said. “When Tony Dungy said, ‘This is a bad decision,’ and, ‘Good luck finding someone better than John [Harbaugh].’ I literally wanted to call Tony and say, ‘Do you remember John 18 years ago? How can you take our success and use it against me while we’re out trying to find the next John Harbaugh?’ That’s impossible. “So, if I hire an offensive coordinator or a defensive coordinator, none of you can say anything about his poor record the first time he was a head coach. And so, it’d be very easy for me to try and avoid those ex-head coaches because they have losing records, but I’m telling you, we are keen to their circumstances, and we won’t let their first shot at a job influence us negatively for this one.” Of the at least 10 coaches Baltimore has formally interviewed, six are former head coaches: Vance Joseph, Kevin Stefanski, Matt Nagy, Kliff Kingsbury, Brian Flores and Jim Schwartz. Of them, only Nagy doesn’t have a losing record, going 34-31 during the regular season and 0-2 in the playoffs in four seasons leading the Chicago Bears from 2018 to 2021. It’s also notable to remember that Harbaugh was a relative unknown when Bisciotti hired him (albeit as his second choice behind then-Dallas Cowboys offensive coordinator Jason Garrett) from the Philadelphia Eagles, where he was a long-time special teams coordinator and spent one season as defensive backs coach. Who could be this year’s version of that? Rams pass game coordinator Nathan Scheelhaase, 35, has percolated around the league for his behind-the-scenes work of game plan design, among other things, and has a good record under Sean McVay’s Los Angeles coaching tree, which includes the Green Bay Packers’ Matt LaFleur, Cincinnati Bengals’ Zac Taylor and to an extent the Jacksonville Jaguars’ Liam Coen. Only one of McVay’s former assistants (recently-fired Atlanta Falcons coach Raheem Morris) hasn’t made the playoffs as a head coach. Another name that has risen among league cognoscenti is 30-year-old Denver Broncos pass game coordinator and quarterbacks coach Davis Webb. He has certainly helped in the development of Broncos second-year quarterback Bo Nix, but would also be easily the youngest coach in the NFL. Where are the Ravens and QB Lamar Jackson in contract negotiations? Lamar Jackson is under contract for two more seasons. The bad news is that his salary cap number is due to skyrocket to $74.5 million in 2026 and 2027, which would chew up nearly 25% of the team’s total cap space. Because of that, there’s an urgency for Bisciotti and company to get an extension done by the start of the new league year on March 11. Related Articles Josh Tolentino: After misfires, Ravens GM Eric DeCosta is in uncharted waters | COMMENTARY With John Harbaugh going to Giants, which Ravens might he target? READERS RESPOND: Some Ravens fans want Klint Kubiak as the next coach NFL coach matchmaker: Predicting landing spots for all 8 available jobs Giants, former Ravens coach John Harbaugh finalizing deal “The urgency of that matters to me because we’ve got free agents and I don’t want to go into free agency with that hanging over our head,” Bisciotti said. “And I made that clear to Lamar and I think he was very appreciative of my stance and hopefully willing to work with Eric and not get this thing dragged out into April like the last time. It’s very hard for him to build a roster when that thing is not settled.” If nothing else, there has certainly been a good deal more communication with the quarterback than in the past. Bisciotti spoke to Jackson on the phone the night before he fired Harbaugh. He talked to him after the firing. DeCosta has also spoken with Jackson on multiple occasions. Jackson has also been invited to be a part of the process of hiring the next coach — though Bisciotti made it clear that Jackson has “no power” in that decision. The two sides being engaged is certainly a good sign, and it’s worth remembering that the last time Jackson, who acts as his own agent, made a trade request amid his last contract negotiations in 2023 he only did so as a matter of business tactics. Who will be their next offensive and defensive coordinators? It has already been reported that Todd Monken will join Harbaugh in New York as his offensive coordinator. Defensive coordinator Zach Orr is also not likely to be back after the Ravens’ defense, which was historically great in 2023, took a big step backwards each of the past two seasons. Who replaces each, of course, depends on who the head coach is. Zach Orr struggled as the Ravens' defensive coordinator in 2025, ranking in the bottom 10 of yards allowed. Baltimore's next hire at the position will be important in getting the organization back to the postseason. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Scheelhaase and Webb could be potential candidates for offensive coordinator if neither lands a head coaching job. It would be a significant promotion for each. Another possibility perhaps would be ex-Miami Dolphins coach Mike MacDaniel, who is widely viewed as one of the more creative minds in the game. Or perhaps former Commanders coordinator Kliff Kingsbury would fit the bill after overseeing quarterback Jayden Daniels’ success in Washington and a college career in which he worked with a few other high-profile quarterbacks, including Patrick Mahomes. Who they turn to on defense is perhaps more interesting and also possibly more difficult to pinpoint. Schwartz has a terrific track record as the Browns’ defensive coordinator, but he’s probably not leaving Cleveland in a lateral move, unless whoever their new coach wouldn’t want to bring him back, which wouldn’t make a lot of sense. The same scenario would likely be true for other defensive coaches Baltimore has already interviewed for its head job. If the Ravens hire a defensive coordinator or former head coach with a defensive background as their head coach, perhaps that coach brings someone from his staff with him, or identifies someone among Baltimore’s current assistants. If it’s an offensive-oriented coach, that opens things up even more, though it’s unlikely to be someone who changes Baltimore’s defensive scheme significantly. However it plays out, the Ravens will already know who their coordinators will be when they hire the head coach with DeCosta, Newsome and Brown looking at it as a package deal. Which of its own free agents will Baltimore keep; which outside ones will it pursue? The Ravens have two-dozen free agents, 19 of which are unrestricted. They also have what DeCosta called a “nice little nest egg” in terms of money they carried over this year that should free them up a little more than usual when it comes to retaining some of their own players while shopping around the league for what DeCosta dubbed “big-ticket” items. Whom could they look to keep and whom could they look to target? Among their own, three-time Pro Bowl center Tyler Linderbaum figures to top the list of priorities. He’s undersized and has had some neck issues, but he checks so many of Baltimore’s boxes on and off the field. Having continuity by retaining the guy who snaps the ball to Jackson is also important, and there’s no obvious candidate to replace him on the roster. Kansas City Chiefs center Creed Humphrey, a 26-year-old two-time All-Pro and four-time Pro Bowl selection, tops the market at $18 million a year, so it will cost DeCosta significant capital to keep Linderbaum, who will likely want to earn close to that on an annual basis. Ravens center Tyler Linderbaum, shown arriving for the first day of training camp in 2025, is among the free agents Baltimore would like to re-sign. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) The good news for Baltimore is that other players it could look to keep should cost much less. Among them are All-Pro punter Jordan Stout, cornerback Chidobe Awuzie, safety Ar’Darius Washington, fullback/tight end Pat Ricard and tight end Charlie Kolar. Outside the building, the Ravens could look to make a splash in one or two of a few areas. With a lack of sacks and quarterback pressure by the defense this past season, their biggest need is at outside linebacker/edge. Veteran Kyle Van Noy isn’t likely to be back after struggling this year and Dre’Mont Jones probably doesn’t give them the level of juice they’re seeking. The next biggest focus will be the offensive line, particularly at both guard spots. Bisciotti pointed out how the offensive line didn’t improve this season and while offensive line coach George Warhop will get some of the blame, some of it will fall on the players. On defense, the Ravens signed ascendant Travis Jones and veteran John Jenkins to extensions this season, both important deals with Nnamdi Madubuike’s future unclear because of a season-ending neck injury. But they need more up front and figure to add to the group through the draft and free agency. Lastly, cornerback and wide receiver will be needs as well. It seems likely the Ravens will move on from veteran cornerback Marlon Humphrey after he had a poor year in 2025 and will turn 30 this summer. Mercurial wide receiver Rashod Bateman was nearly traded to the Dallas Cowboys last offseason and could be on the block again after a big drop in targets and production and what is a team-friendly contract that he signed only last offseason. A fresh start somewhere else might do both parties good. Whatever moves the Ravens make, though, will undoubtedly depend on what they can do with Jackson’s contract. “Well, it would certainly give us more flexibility, cap-wise, roster building,” DeCosta said. “A deal with Lamar would give us the ability to be more active, to re-sign some more players on the team and to potentially go after a couple of big-ticket items. We haven’t traditionally done that. We’ve been more reserved when it comes to free agency. We like the amount of draft picks we have this year. We do have money to go out and re-sign guys – free agents that we have right now; [they are] some good players, certainly – but having more money would be helpful, for sure.” What positions will the Ravens target in the draft? As mentioned, for as much talent as the Ravens’ roster had this season, there are a plethora of needs. Building through the draft is also an organizational philosophy that isn’t changing with the ouster of Harbaugh. “I still believe the best way of building the team is through the draft, because I’ve seen Ozzie do it so many years and do it at a Hall of Fame level,” DeCosta said. “We will participate in free agency, and we will trade for players. We’ve done that. It has to be right player, right price. If there’s an elite Hall-of-Fame-type talent that’s available that we think can come in and be – as Steve likes to call them – game wreckers, we look at that. “But to do that for a really, really good player and have to pay the exorbitant price and also give up all the draft pick capital, that can set your franchise back for a long time as we’ve seen.” This year, the Ravens have 10 draft picks, which includes the 14th overall pick, their highest position since 2022. That year, they used the 14th pick on safety Kyle Hamilton, which has obviously worked out. Some picks haven’t panned out so well, be it 2024 third-round selection Adisa Isaac, 2023 third-rounder Trenton Simpson, or, most notably, 2022 second-round pick David Ojabo. But Bisciotti has made it clear that DeCosta, who will be leading his eighth draft this April, isn’t going anywhere and that he has been happy with his “singles and doubles and home runs” among some whiffs. Among Baltimore’s biggest needs that it will address in the draft: Offensive and defensive line, pass rusher, cornerback, wide receiver, running back and quarterback. Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta, shown Tuesday at a news conference, hopes to retool Baltimore's roster through the NFL draft and free agency. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff) View the full article

This offseason is shaping up to be a new test for Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta. For the first time in his tenure, DeCosta will be tasked with retooling a roster alongside a head coach not named John Harbaugh. Is the team’s top football chief ready for the challenge? On Tuesday, owner Steve Bisciotti offered DeCosta a strong public endorsement, labeling him an “.800 hitter.” The comment reinforced Bisciotti’s confidence in DeCosta, but the reason why Bisciotti made himself available in a news conference setting for the first time since 2018 is because the Ravens failed to reach expectations in 2025 and, in turn, parted ways with their veteran coach. Harbaugh might be gone, but this past season exposed a series of DeCosta-led roster decisions that actively contributed to the team’s downfall. To his credit, DeCosta didn’t shy away from that reality. “When you underachieve, you can blame a lot of things,” DeCosta said. “We didn’t play consistently from game to game. … We underachieved as a scouting staff, as a coaching staff and as players. [We underachieved] across the board, and we have to own that, and I think we will. We’re excited about it. We’ve been in this position before, many times over the last 30 years where we’ve had to rebuild and tweak and change and adjust and really look at ourselves and say, ‘What can we do better?’ “I think it starts with me. It starts with the new coaching staff, and I think the players will be accountable as well.” DeCosta’s misfires were widespread. The signing of quarterback Cooper Rush was supposed to be a conservative insurance policy behind Lamar Jackson. Instead, it became one of the season’s most glaring failures. When Jackson missed time because of injuries, Rush started two games. The Ravens lost both. The veteran struggled to operate the offense, tumbled down the depth chart and eventually became an emergency option behind Tyler Huntley. From the onset, Rush felt like an odd fit. The defensive line followed a similar arc. When $100 million defensive tackle Nnamdi Madubuike went down early with a season-ending neck injury, the rest of the defensive line suffered immensely. Kyle Van Noy’s sack numbers fell sharply, from a career-high 12 1/2 sacks in 2024 to just two this past season. Second-round draft pick Mike Green finished with 3 1/2 sacks, which ranked third most on the team. Behind the defensive front sat a high-paid, veteran secondary that struggled against quality passers. The Ravens invested heavily in experience and continuity — in addition to using their top draft pick on safety Malaki Starks — on the back end, but the return was inconsistent coverage and several late-game breakdowns and collapses. Baltimore’s pass defense ranked second to last in the NFL behind only the Cowboys. Remember when the Ravens were once regularly feared as a top NFL defense? Related Articles Now what for Ravens? 5 biggest offseason questions, from coach to NFL draft With John Harbaugh going to Giants, which Ravens might he target? READERS RESPOND: Some Ravens fans want Klint Kubiak as the next coach NFL coach matchmaker: Predicting landing spots for all 8 available jobs Giants, former Ravens coach John Harbaugh finalizing deal The oft-criticized offensive line notably regressed after DeCosta gambled on running it back with essentially the same group from the 2024 season that helped set franchise records. He paired that decision with another risk in drafting Emery Jones Jr. (third round, No. 91 overall), who missed all of training camp and started the season on injured reserve while he recovered from a shoulder injury that required offseason surgery. Jones might eventually develop into a contributor, but the draft capital DeCosta allocated toward the 6-foot-5 lineman could’ve been used elsewhere on a roster that proved to have multiple holes. The offensive line improved in run blocking, but struggled throughout in pass protection. Jackson suffered 36 sacks, second most in his career, despite playing in only 13 games. The list continues. Wide receiver Zay Flowers reinforced himself as the clear No. 1 option in the passing game, but behind him, the drop-off was steep. Rashod Bateman’s offseason extension was team-friendly on paper, but the production cratered as Bateman posted the worst statistical season of his five-year career. He repeatedly appeared disinterested within an offense catered toward Flowers and running back Derrick Henry, and he faded from weekly relevance. Flowers led the Ravens with 86 catches and 1,211 receiving yards. The gap between him and the rest of the receiving corps (Bateman 19 catches, 224 yards; DeAndre Hopkins 22 catches, 330 yards; Devontez Walker 6 catches, 136 yards; Tylan Wallace 4 catches, 45 yards) further magnified the team’s need for a reliable No. 2 WR. DeCosta will now address each of these issues while navigating unfamiliar professional ground. The Ravens’ coaching vacancy, one of nine across the league, is widely viewed as the best opening available. The infrastructure is appealing, highlighted by a two-time MVP quarterback in Jackson, an offensive identity powered by Henry, a defensive cornerstone in Kyle Hamilton, and an owner willing to spend in pursuit of Baltimore’s third Lombardi Trophy. DeCosta and Ozzie Newsome have built strong rosters in past seasons. But this time, the general manager-coach pairing will be new territory for DeCosta to navigate in what will be a defining offseason. “I think Eric is one of the best GMs in the league,” Bisciotti said. “I think he’s batting .800. I’m just making up a number for you, but I’m not going to look at Eric’s 200 whiffs. I’ll look at his 800 singles and doubles and home runs. To me, that’s fair. I’m very, very pleased with Eric.” Bisciotti sounds ultra confident in the man tasked with recognizing and correcting his misfires. The owner’s instinct has led him to sustained success since he became the franchise’s majority owner in 2004. But confidence should not eliminate consequence. DeCosta will attempt to fix what went wrong while simultaneously forging a new working relationship with the franchise’s fourth head coach, without the benefit of comfort and alignment he shared with Harbaugh. Is he ready? Have a news tip? Contact Josh Tolentino at jtolentino@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200, x.com/JCTSports and instagram.com/JCTSports. Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta, right, stands next to Malaki Starks, center, and then-Ravens coach John Harbaugh in 2025. DeCosta faces perhaps his most important offseason as the team's general manager. (Kevin Richardson/Staff) View the full article

When Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti woke up the morning after Baltimore’s ill-fated season came careening to its end in Pittsburgh knowing that he would fire John Harbaugh after 18 seasons and then acted on that decision the following day, the one-time Super Bowl winner and 14th winningest coach in NFL history immediately went straight to the top of the list of available candidates. Unsurprisingly, it took just over a week for the 63-year-old coach to land his next gig, with the New York Giants eagerly hiring him in an effort to restore the storied and once-proud franchise. Now one of questions as far as Baltimore is concerned is, who will Harbaugh potentially take him with him to fill out his staff and roster? Though many of his now former assistants are under contract with the Ravens through the 2027 season, Baltimore’s next coach from among at least 15 candidates is likely to bring in his largely his own group, from the coordinator level down. Bisciotti and general manager Eric DeCosta were also critical of the job the coaching staff did amid an 8-9 season in which Baltimore tied a franchise record with five losses in its first six games and ended the year out of the playoffs for the first time since 2021 — despite a roster that includes two-time NFL Most Valuable Player and quarterback Lamar Jackson along with six players selected to this year’s Pro Bowl Games. “I think that you can look at a lot of guys on our team that we had expected to take the next step that did not take that next step,” Bisciotti said. “And we’ve got to get to the bottom of that with coaching and scouting.” Added DeCosta: “I think we underachieved as a scouting staff, as a coaching staff and as players.” So, what coaches and looming free agents could perhaps follow Harbaugh to New York? Todd Monken, offensive coordinator It has already been reported that Monken is expected to become the Giants’ offensive coordinator, replacing Mike Kafka, who has been in the role since 2022. It also makes sense. Like Jackson, Jaxson Dart is a mobile quarterback who at times dazzled this past season as a rookie before getting injured. He was also a big part of the reason Harbaugh took the job. In Baltimore, Monken was the architect of an offense in 2024 that became the first to reach 4,000 passing yards and 3,000 rushing yards in the same season. He also helped propel Jackson to career highs in passing yards, touchdown passes and completion percentage during his tenure. Monken was also the offensive coordinator for the Cleveland Browns in 2019 when Baker Mayfield threw for a career-high 3,827 yards, a mark that still stands. At Georgia, his work with quarterback Stetson Bennett and the offense helped the Bulldogs to back-to-back national championships. As for other assistants he could potentially look to bring with him, some of those decisions will be determined by whom the Ravens are willing to let go of. Again, though, the coaching staff is likely to look much different for Baltimore next season. Potential Ravens coaches Harbaugh might target: Senior special teams coach Randy Brown, defensive line coach Dennis Johnson, running backs coach Willie Taggart, assistant special teams coach Anthony Levine Sr., outside linebacker coach Matt Robinson, inside linebackers coach Tyleer Santucci. As for players, the Ravens have two dozen pending free agents, including 19 unrestricted. Some of them will undoubtedly be guys that Harbaugh will have an interest in bringing to the Giants, who have a roster with some talent but still a lot of holes to fill. Given his penchant for special teams, he will also want to bring in players who can help fill that void for a team that ranked in the bottom third of the league in most categories. Related Articles READERS RESPOND: Some Ravens fans want Klint Kubiak as the next coach NFL coach matchmaker: Predicting landing spots for all 8 available jobs Giants, former Ravens coach John Harbaugh finalizing deal John Harbaugh interviews in person for Giants’ coaching vacancy Watch Episode 21 of the BMore Football Podcast with The Baltimore Sun’s Mike Preston and Jerry Coleman presented by Rice Law Pat Ricard, FB/TE Ricard has been an integral part of Baltimore’s plans on offense, but that could change under a new regime. He has a lot of wear and tear, but he also wants to play at least 10 seasons and would hit that milestone next season. The Giants were sixth in rushing yards per game last season but just 17th in yards per carry, a metric Ricard’s blocking would almost certainly improve, and his pass blocking skills would be a benefit to Dart. He’d also be a fascinating fit alongside running back Cam Skattebo. Isaiah Likely, TE With the asking price out of the Ravens’ range, Baltimore opted to re-up with veteran Mark Andrews instead. That means Likely, 25 and who just finished his fourth season, could be an attractive piece for an offense that lacks playmakers outside of Nabers. Likely took a step back this season after breaking his foot in August and missing the first three games, but he showed his potential in 2024 with 42 catches for 477 yards and six touchdowns as he emerged as one of Jackson’s favorite targets, particularly when things go off schedule. Charlie Kolar, TE Kolar also logged a ton of special teams snaps, with his 293 the third-most on the team. He also provides versatility as both a blocker and receiver. Theo Johnson was New York’s primary tight end and took a big step forward in his second season with career highs in catches (45), yards (528) and touchdowns (five), the latter leading the team, but Kolar would give them another ascending and familiar player at a position that needs help. Tylan Wallace, WR Long a special teams stalwart and popular and well-respected locker room presence with the Ravens, it also seems like the fifth-year receiver could be elsewhere next season. He hasn’t been able to carve out much of an offensive role with Baltimore, but perhaps he’d be able to do so somewhere behind Giants star Malik Nabers in addition to being the kind of dependable special teamer that Harbaugh covets. Jake Hummel, LB See above. Hummel led the Ravens in special teams snaps, logging 372 this season. He played just 33 snaps on defense, so this would strictly be a move for a special teams role. It’s also an area of need for a Giants team that wasn’t very good in an area that Harbaugh views as fundamentally significant and important. Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. Ravens tight end Isaiah Likely signs a jersey for a teammate after cleaning out his locker after Baltimore's Week 18 loss to Pittsburgh. The free agent could end up in New York with John Harbaugh, playing for the Giants in 2026. (Kevin Richardson/Staff) View the full article

We asked readers who the next Ravens coach should be after the team recently fired John Harbaugh. Baltimore is fast at work interviewing candidates to replace Harbaugh. Here are the results from our online poll: Klint Kubiak, Seahawks OC — 31.5% (354 votes) Jesse Minter, Chargers DC — 18.6% (209 votes) Brian Flores, Vikings DC — 12.9% (145 votes) Kevin Stefanski, former Browns coach — 11.2% (126 votes) Robert Saleh, 49ers DC — 6% (67 votes) Other — 5.4% (60 votes) Mike McDaniel, former Dolphins coach — 3.4% (38 votes) Anthony Weaver, Dolphins DC — 2.4% (27 votes) Matt Nagy, Chiefs OC — 2.2% (25 votes) Joe Brady, Bills OC — 2.1% (24 votes) Vance Joseph, Broncos DC — 1.8% (20 votes) Davis Webb, Broncos pass game coordinator and QBs coach — 1.3% (15 votes) Kliff Kingsbury, former Commanders OC — 1.2% (14 votes) Here’s what some fans have said about the Ravens’ coaching search (answers have been edited for clarity and grammar): Ray Lewis! — Connie The biggest need is for somebody who is strong in the defensive game. There are a lot of good candidates, but a defensive mind is what is really needed. — Mark Havelin This team needs a disciplinarian, aggressive figure. Brian Flores would fit the “Play like a Raven” mantra. — Joshua Valladares I like Kubiak to help make the offense sharper with more varied and well-designed plays, and hopefully he can coach AND call the plays like Sean McVay. Then they can put more money into finding a defensive coordinator like Jim Schwartz, who is proven and could get more out of the defense, especially when holding a lead! — William G. Shinham Mike Tomlin!! It would be hard for some parts of the fan base to accept, but they would soon forgive after winning, winning, winning!! — LeeRoy Ward I think the Ravens need a proven coach to step in while their Super Bowl window is still open. If Kevin Stefanski can be named Coach of the Year twice with a dumpster fire of an organization in the Cleveland Browns, imagine what he could do with a strong and proven organization like the Ravens. — Dale S. Mike Tomlin, of course. He would come to work and do his job! — Virginia Klint Kubiak or Brian Flores. — Eric Johnson Ed Reed or Ray Lewis. Make one the head coach and the other the defensive coordinator. — Kevin Campbell Hire Kubiak … It’s in the genes. He’ll be AMAZING in Birdland. — Jeannie Prevosto Flores as head coach, McDaniel as offensive coordinator and Weaver as defensive coordinator. — Brent Conover Someone good. — Kelly Traver The Baltimore Sun reader poll is an unscientific survey in which website users volunteer their opinions on the subject of the poll. To see results from previous sports polls, go to baltimoresun.com/sportspoll Related Articles With John Harbaugh going to Giants, which Ravens might he target? NFL coach matchmaker: Predicting landing spots for all 8 available jobs Giants, former Ravens coach John Harbaugh finalizing deal John Harbaugh interviews in person for Giants’ coaching vacancy Watch Episode 21 of the BMore Football Podcast with The Baltimore Sun’s Mike Preston and Jerry Coleman presented by Rice Law View the full article

The NFL coaching carousel is in full swing. With Mike Tomlin and John Harbaugh departing the Steelers and Ravens, respectively, after being the longest-tenured coaches in the league, it’s a particularly active hiring cycle. Harbaugh appears to be the first domino to fall, reportedly finalizing a deal with the New York Giants after interviewing in person Wednesday at the team’s facility. That leaves eight remaining head coach openings. Who will fill them? Here are our predictions: Ravens Jesse Minter, Chargers defensive coordinator Why he fits: Minter’s profile is very similar to current Seahawks coach Mike Macdonald, who also coached under both Harbaugh brothers with the University of Michigan and the Ravens before becoming a head coach. Minter completed an interview with the Ravens on Wednesday. Given how successful Macdonald has been in Seattle and with Baltimore seeking to reclaim its defensive identity after disappointing results under young coordinator Zach Orr, Minter makes a lot of sense as Harbaugh’s replacement. The 42-year-old’s defenses have ranked ninth and 10th, respectively, in defense-adjusted value over average in his first two seasons as an NFL play caller. Coaching is in his blood, too. His father, Rick, is a senior defensive analyst with the Chargers and was the head coach for 10 years at the University of Cincinnati. Why he might not fit: Minter has nearly 20 years of experience coaching in college and the NFL, but he’s never been a head coach. That’s not unusual, but with the Ravens replacing an 18-year veteran like Harbaugh, perhaps some familiarity as a program leader matters. And while Minter’s Harbaugh connections might work in his favor across the league, perhaps the Ravens are looking for a clean break from the famous football family and don’t want anyone associated with the Harbaugh coaching tree. There’s also the question of who Minter hires to lead his offense. Given how important that position will be in working with two-time NFL Most Valuable Player Lamar Jackson, his answer could determine his viability in Baltimore. Pittsburgh Steelers Chris Shula, Rams defensive coordinator Why he fits: The Steelers will be hiring just their fourth coach since 1969, so longevity is a must. Shula, 39, could stick around for a long time given his background and previous success. The grandson of legendary coach Don Shula led the league’s No. 4 defense according to DVOA this season powered by a strong defensive front. The Steelers boast T.J. Watt, Cameron Heyward, Alex Highsmith, Nick Herbig, Keeanu Benton and Derrick Harmon and have long prided themselves on playing tough defense. Why he might not fit: While defense has routinely been a strong suit for Pittsburgh, the offense has been inconsistent ever since Ben Roethlisberger, Antonio Brown and Le’Veon Bell departed. Quarterback has also been a revolving door, with Aaron Rodgers providing some stability in 2025 but his future uncertain at 42 years old. There’s no guarantee that Shula is interested in taking over a team without a legitimate quarterback already in place. If he is, there’s the question of who he’ll bring with him to run his offense. Given his background in the Sean McVay coaching tree, there should at least be some enticing options, including young head coaching candidate Nate Scheelhaase. Cleveland Browns Jim Schwartz, Browns defensive coordinator Why he fits: The Baltimore County native and Mount Saint Joseph graduate is already plenty familiar with the organization, having served as Cleveland’s defensive coordinator for three seasons. That familiarity with the Haslam family ownership and general manager Andrew Berry could elevate him to the top role, especially considering that the Browns’ defense has been among the league’s best under his direction while the offense struggled under previous coach Kevin Stefanski. Keeping Schwartz, who led the Detroit Lions to the playoffs once in his five seasons as coach, would at least ensure that one side of the ball is in good hands. Related Articles Giants, former Ravens coach John Harbaugh finalizing deal John Harbaugh interviews in person for Giants’ coaching vacancy Watch Episode 21 of the BMore Football Podcast with The Baltimore Sun’s Mike Preston and Jerry Coleman presented by Rice Law Ravens GM Eric DeCosta’s job is safe. He knows they have to own mistakes. Surprised but not shocked, Steelers prepare for life after Mike Tomlin Why he might not fit: For as good as Schwartz’s defenses have been with star pass rusher Myles Garrett leading the charge, the Browns won just seven combined games over the past two seasons. There’s also the longtime search for a franchise quarterback to consider, with Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders still unproven coming off their rookie seasons and Deshaun Watson still under contract. Unless Schwartz can prove that he has a plan to find a quarterback and fix the offense, he might only be considered as a defensive coordinator. Arizona Cardinals Matt Nagy, Chiefs offensive coordinator Why he fits: The Cardinals struck out by hiring a defensive coordinator from a Super Bowl staff with Jonathan Gannon. Why not try an offensive coordinator from one of the league’s most successful teams? Fans might remember Nagy’s Bears tenure mostly for the “double doink” playoff loss to the Eagles, but he went 34-33 in his four seasons in Chicago with Mitchell Trubisky and Justin Fields as his quarterbacks. For a team like the Cardinals that has made just one playoff appearance in the past 10 seasons, that resume might be attractive. Nagy’s background with Andy Reid and experience working with Patrick Mahomes in Kansas City could appeal to Arizona, which must decide whether to keep Kyler Murray or begin a search for a new quarterback. Why he might not fit: For a team trying to sell its fan base on a promising new era, hiring a retread coach might not be the best move — especially in a division with Macdonald, Kyle Shanahan and McVay. Nagy is only 47, but his experience with the Bears could be held against him as proof that he’s not cut out to be a head coach. He also hasn’t called plays during his recent tenure in Kansas City, with Reid handling those duties. Atlanta Falcons Anthony Weaver, Dolphins defensive coordinator Why he fits: For a young and ascending defense that just brought in two standout rookies in Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr., Weaver could be the perfect coach to help take Atlanta to the next level. The 45-year-old former Ravens assistant has more than 10 years of experience coaching in the NFL and recorded 15 1/2 sacks as a defensive end with Baltimore and Houston. His expertise as both a player and coach is valuable, especially for a league skewing younger with head coaching hires who can relate to players. Why he might not fit: The Falcons talked with Bill Belichick before hiring Raheem Morris in 2024 and have been linked to Harbaugh. Maybe owner Arthur Blank wants a proven veteran as coach, and Weaver has no experience in the top role. Las Vegas Raiders Kevin Stefanski, former Browns coach Why he fits: The Raiders have the No. 1 overall pick in the draft and will presumably take Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza. They’ll need a coach who can develop him, and Stefanski fits the bill. In Cleveland, Stefanski made the playoffs with both 25-year-old Baker Mayfield and 38-year-old Joe Flacco. Early in his Browns tenure, his offenses consistently ran the ball well and relied on play-action passing. That would make life easier for a young quarterback. Ex-Browns coach Kevin Stefanski, shown on the sideline in December, is considered a candidate for several job openings. (Kirk Irwin/AP) As a time-time NFL Coach of the Year, Stefanski often outperformed expectations in Cleveland. Las Vegas needs to do more with less to have any hope of competing with the Broncos, Chiefs and Chargers in the AFC West. Why he might not fit: Stefanski’s offenses struggled in 2024 and 2025, though much of that was because of poor quarterback play, offensive line injuries and a lack of playmakers. Raiders general manager John Spytek and part-owner Tom Brady will have to decide whether Stefanski was undone by his circumstances in Cleveland and still has untapped potential. Tennessee Titans Klint Kubiak, Seahawks offensive coordinator Why he fits: The Titans have promising young quarterback Cam Ward, a new stadium coming and a respected general manager in Mike Borgonzi. In short, it’s an attractive landing spot. Kubiak is one of the hottest candidates this hiring cycle after helping lead Sam Darnold and the Seahawks to the No. 1 seed in the NFC. Though Darnold led the league with 20 turnovers, Seattle ran the ball effectively behind Kenneth Walker and Zach Charbonnet and produced the NFL’s leading receiver in Jaxon Smith-Njigba (1,793 yards). Why he might not fit: There are several factors at play, but Darnold was one of the league’s worst quarterbacks down the stretch of the season. Whether that was opposing defenses figuring something out in Kubiak’s scheme or Darnold’s own weaknesses, it’s enough of a red flag considering that he’s only called plays for two seasons at the NFL level. Miami Dolphins Robert Saleh, 49ers defensive coordinator Why he fits: For a team that has faced questions about its toughness for years, especially in cold weather, Saleh could provide an exciting new culture. The Dolphins’ defense has some strong building blocks in Bradley Chubb, Minkah Fitzpatrick, Chop Robinson, Zach Sieler, Jordyn Brooks and Kenneth Grant. It might even have more talent than what Saleh, 46, had down the stretch in San Francisco after the 49ers were ravaged by injuries, and they still went 12-5 and beat the defending champion Eagles in the wild-card round. While Saleh’s tenure as Jets coach was filled with disappointment, that was largely because of the offense’s ineptitude and Aaron Rodgers’ meddling. Saleh is a proven defensive coach who could be an effective program builder if given another chance. Why he might not fit: After seeing what life was like with a proven quarterback in New York, Saleh might not be eager to take over a team with a big question mark at the position. Tua Tagovailoa carries a $56 million cap hit next season, and it’s unclear whether star wide receivers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle and other high-priced veterans will be back. There are a lot of holes on the roster, and competing in the AFC East with Buffalo and New England will take some serious work. Have a news tip? Contact C.J. Doon at cdoon@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/CJDoon. View the full article