Much to the NFL world’s surprise, the John Harbaugh era came to an end for the Baltimore Ravens this Tuesday.
Less than 48 hours after losing their regular-season finale to the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Ravens made the tough decision to fire Harbaugh. He had an incredible 18-year run with the organization, owning a 180-113 record and a Super Bowl title. Despite his sustained success, Baltimore felt like it was time for a change.
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“Following a comprehensive evaluation of the season and the overall direction of our organization, I decided to make a change at head coach. Today I informed John that he has been relieved of his duties. This was an incredibly difficult decision, given the tremendous 18 years we have spent together and the profound respect I have for John as a coach and, most importantly, as a great man of integrity,” Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti said in a statement. “Throughout what I firmly believe is a Hall of Fame coaching career, John has delivered a Super Bowl championship to Baltimore and served as a steadfast pillar of humility and leadership. He and his family have deeply embedded themselves in this community. For these profound contributions, on and off the field, we should all be forever grateful.”
Harbaugh is expected to be the top option for teams with head-coaching vacancies. In fact, there’s a chance a team will fire their coach just so they can make a run at him.
Jan 4, 2026; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh reacts during the second half at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images© Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images
According to Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated, the Miami Dolphins could pursue Harbaugh. They have not yet fired head coach Mike McDaniel, but that could change in the coming days.
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A similar report was shared by NFL insider Josina Anderson.
“I’m told that #Dolphins ownership has expressed an affinity for John Harbaugh recently, per league source,” Anderson wrote. “We’ll see if that appeal materializes into an opportunity, as the seat is not currently vacant. Harbaugh will have multiple conversations at his door step.”
At the very least, it’s safe to say McDaniel isn’t a lock to return to Miami in 2026.
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Who is the favorite to get Harbaugh?
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the New York Giants are going to pursue Harbaugh this offseason. The franchise has been searching for a coach who can establish a winning culture.
“John Harbaugh is expected to emerge as a favorite for the head coaching job of the New York Giants,” Schefter said. “Harbaugh will be in demand for many teams, not just the Giants.”
The Giants have a talented roster that features rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart, wide receiver Malik Nabers and defensive end Brian Burns. On paper, there’s more than enough firepower for Harbaugh to make noise in the NFC East.
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Is Harbaugh interested in the Giants though? We’ll find out later this offseason.
This story was originally published by The Spun on Jan 6, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add The Spun as a Preferred Source by clicking here.