John Harbaugh Attracts 9 NFL Suitors; Are the Steelers Interested?

John Harbaugh’s swift departure from the Baltimore Ravens has sparked considerable interest across the NFL. The former head coach has reportedly attracted attention from at least nine franchises, despite being unemployed for just a day. He is viewed as the top coaching candidate this offseason, according to sources in the league.

Harbaugh’s Rapid Attraction in the NFL

After his firing, Harbaugh garnered inquiries from numerous teams, indicating his significant reputation in the league. While six teams are actively seeking a new head coach, there are indications that additional teams may consider a change in leadership. This situation highlights the competitive nature of the NFL coaching carousel.

Current Coaching Vacancies

• New York Giants
• Tennessee Titans
• Atlanta Falcons
• Las Vegas Raiders
• Cleveland Browns
• Arizona Cardinals

Alongside these vacancies, teams like the Miami Dolphins have reportedly contacted Harbaugh, despite their current head coach Mike McDaniel receiving public support from ownership. There is also speculation about potential moves from organizations such as the Green Bay Packers and Carolina Panthers, which could add to the competition for Harbaugh’s services.

Potential Suitors for Harbaugh

Interest in Harbaugh extends beyond teams with vacancies. Some franchises, particularly those with internal discussions about coaching changes, view him as a top candidate. For example, the Dolphins’ owner Stephen Ross has shown he is willing to make bold moves in the past.

Specific Teams Considering Harbaugh

• Green Bay Packers: Questions surround Matt LaFleur’s future despite his successful record.
• Miami Dolphins: Owner’s support for McDaniel may be tested by Harbaugh’s availability.
• Carolina Panthers: The franchise has yet to indicate a change but remains unpredictable.
• Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Even with Todd Bowles returning, Harbaugh remains a topic of discussion.

Are the Pittsburgh Steelers Interested?

A notable conversation centers around the Pittsburgh Steelers and the implications of Mike Tomlin’s current status. The Steelers achieved success in the regular season but are contemplating their coaching direction, especially if Harbaugh is an option.

The Steelers, who defeated the Ravens for the AFC North title, are initially appearing secure with Tomlin. However, some insiders describe the franchise as a potential “dark horse” in the pursuit of Harbaugh.

Tomlin’s Connection to the Giants

Connections between the Giants and Steelers could make Tomlin an attractive candidate. However, the Giants are not waiting for a decision on Tomlin’s future as they proceed with their coaching search. There are numerous experienced candidates available, making it feasible for the Giants to move forward without delay.

Conclusion

With John Harbaugh’s name circulating among numerous NFL teams as a prime coaching candidate, the coming weeks will be critical in shaping the league’s coaching landscape. Interest from the Steelers and other franchises indicates that Harbaugh’s next move will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.