John Harbaugh Fired as Baltimore Ravens Head Coach After 18 Seasons
Baltimore, January 6, 2026 – The Baltimore Ravens have parted ways with head coach John Harbaugh after 18 seasons, marking the end of one of the NFL’s longest coaching tenures and a storied era for the franchise.
Details of the Firing
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Harbaugh, 63, was fired on January 6, 2026, just two days after the Ravens’ season ended with a 26-24 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 18, resulting in an 8-9 record and missing the playoffs for the first time since 2021. The decision comes despite Harbaugh signing a three-year contract extension in April 2025. Sources indicate the move was mutual, though reports suggest it was initiated by the team following weeks of speculation about his future.
Harbaugh joined the Ravens in 2008 as a first-time head coach after serving as special teams coordinator and defensive backs coach for the Philadelphia Eagles. He transformed the team from a 5-11 record in 2007 to consistent playoff contenders, leading them to 12 playoff appearances in his 18 seasons.
Key Facts and Statistics
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Tenure | 2008–2025 (18 seasons) |
| Regular Season Record | 180-113 (.614 winning percentage) |
| Postseason Record | 13-11 (.542 winning percentage) |
| Super Bowl Wins | 1 (Super Bowl XLVII in 2012) |
| Division Championships | 6 (AFC North) |
| Playoff Appearances | 12 |
| Awards | 2019 AP Coach of the Year, 2019 PFWA Coach of the Year, 2019 Maxwell Club Coach of the Year |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was John Harbaugh fired?
The firing follows a disappointing 2025 season where the Ravens, preseason Super Bowl favorites, finished 8-9 and missed the playoffs. Criticism mounted after losses, including a 28-24 defeat to the New England Patriots on December 21, 2025, and the final game against the Steelers. Despite Harbaugh’s success, the team sought a reset after failing to sustain recent playoff runs.
What are John Harbaugh’s major achievements with the Ravens?
Harbaugh is the winningest coach in Ravens history and led the team to Super Bowl XLVII, defeating his brother Jim Harbaugh’s San Francisco 49ers. He holds NFL records for road playoff wins (8) and is one of the few coaches to win playoff games in six of his first seven seasons. His tenure included four AFC Championship appearances and a culture of stability.
What happens next for the Ravens?
The Ravens will begin a search for a new head coach. Reports suggest offensive coordinator Todd Monken and defensive coordinator Zach Orr could be candidates. The team aims to rebuild around quarterback Lamar Jackson and running back Derrick Henry.