Sources Confirm Harbaugh’s Departure as Ravens Coach
John Harbaugh’s tenure as head coach of the Baltimore Ravens has officially come to an end, sources confirmed. This announcement follows a disappointing conclusion to the 2025 NFL season, marked by a loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers, where the Ravens missed a last-second field goal in a 26-24 defeat. This loss eliminated the team from playoff contention for the first time since 2021.
Harbaugh’s Coaching Record and Legacy
Harbaugh, who signed a three-year deal last offseason, was under contract until 2028. However, with his departure, multiple teams with head coach vacancies are expected to consider him. At 64 years old, Harbaugh ranks 12th for the most all-time wins by an NFL head coach, totaling 193 victories.
During his 18-year leadership, he guided the Ravens to a Super Bowl title in 2012. However, recent seasons saw diminishing playoff success, especially despite having star quarterback Lamar Jackson. Over eight seasons with Jackson, Harbaugh was only able to secure three playoff wins, failing to advance beyond the AFC Championship Game.
Challenges in the Final Season
This past season proved particularly challenging for Harbaugh and the Ravens, as the team finished with an 8-9 record. It marked only the third time the Ravens had a losing season under his leadership. The struggles were most apparent at home, where the Ravens finished with a franchise-worst 3-6 record at M&T Bank Stadium.
Fans expressed their discontent, especially after a heavy 44-10 loss to the Houston Texans in October and a frustrating defeat against the New England Patriots in December. Here, the coaching decisions came under scrutiny as key players were not utilized appropriately during crucial moments.
Historical Context and Future Outlook
When Harbaugh was hired in 2008, he was seen as an unconventional choice due to his background in special teams. He significantly changed the team’s culture, turning the Ravens into consistent Super Bowl contenders. Harbaugh holds the unique record of winning a playoff game in each of his first five seasons.
This tenure makes him the longest-serving coach in Baltimore’s sports history and one of only a handful of coaches to manage over 300 games with a single team. His overall record stands at 193 wins and 124 losses, including playoff games, along with six AFC North titles and multiple playoff appearances.
Coaching Stability in Baltimore
Since relocating from Cleveland in 1996, the Ravens have seen remarkable stability with only three head coaches, two general managers, and two owners over the last thirty years. Harbaugh’s departure signals the end of a significant era for the franchise, which will look to build on its legacy moving forward.
