In a surprise move, the Baltimore Ravens have let go head coach John Harbaugh after 18 seasons. Harbaugh has plenty of accolades, including a 2012 Super Bowl title. Despite being the the 12th-most winning coach in league history with 193 victories, Harbaugh hadn’t gone deep enough into the playoffs with the two-time MVP Lamar Jackson, and it cost him his job.
The Ravens came into the 2025 season as the Super Bowl favorites, but ended with Baltimore missing the playoffs with an 8-9 record. Harbaugh will be sought after by multiple teams, including some with head coaches already in place. But, what do the Ravens plan on after 18 years with the same head coach? It’s hard to know, but some innovation on offense and of course a consistent defense are needed.
Brian Flores, Vikings defensive coordinator
The Ravens defense was awful to start the season, as injuries and poor play brought them down. They did bounce back, but still weren’t up to the usual Ravens standards. There are multiple defensive minded coaches that are available, but Flores has shown he can scheme his defense into pressuring the quarterback better than most. His presence would quickly put the Ravens defense into attack mode, and they have a strong group to work with. Lamar Jackson doesn’t need a QB guru type to Sherpa him into being a better quarterback. Get that defense working at peak efficiency and Jackson can win close games.
Klint Kubiak, Seahawks offensive coordinator
The Ravens have one of the best quarterbacks in the league, but it hasn’t paid off in the way of a Super Bowl appearance. Lamar Jackson isn’t old, but he does have a lot miles on his body, which showed up again this season as he dealt with injuries. Jackson had to cut down on his rushing this year due to those injuries, and it hurt the offense. We’ve seen what Kubiak can do for the Seahawks offense led by Sam Darnold. What could he do with Lamar Jackson?
Kliff Kingsbury, former Commanders offensive coordinator
Kingsbury is a polarizing figure after flaming out with Kyler Murray and the Cardinals, but last season he took the Commanders and rookie Jayden Daniels to the NFC Championship game. This season Daniels was injured and even with Marcus Mariota at the helm, the Commanders offense stayed above water in EPA per play. If the Ravens believe he can consistently keep the offense near the top of the league, they’ll do their due diligence.
Kevin Stefanski, former Browns head coach
Stefanski, like Harbaugh, should get plenty of opportunities after being let go, but would the Ravens want the Browns’ recently fired coach? It might not look great, as the AFC North is steeped in rivalry. But, if they are looking for a good offensive mind and someone who has proven they can navigate a tough head coaching job well, Stefanski is a good hire. I still expect them to look elsewhere, but if I were a Ravens fan, I;d be happy with Stefanski.
Mike LaFleur, Rams offensive coordinator
LaFleur, who is currently the Rams OC under Sean McVay, should be sought after. Matt LaFleur and Kevin O’Connell both have born fruit from that coaching tree and Matt’s brother is likely next in line. Taking over for Harbaugh would be a big step, but I could see them wanting a bite from that McVay apple.
