Harbaugh :The NFL landscape was rocked this week as one of the most stable coaching tenures in sports history came to an abrupt end.
For nearly two decades, the name Harbaugh has been synonymous with Baltimore football.
But as the 2025-2026 season concludes, the coaching carousel has claimed its biggest name yet.
The news has sent shockwaves through the league, sparking debates about legacy, team culture, and what comes next for the winningest coach in Ravens history.
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John Harbaugh news
The latest John Harbaugh news broke early on January 7, 2026, following a disappointing regular-season finale that saw the Baltimore Ravens miss the playoffs for the second time in three years.
Despite a roster loaded with talent, including a healthy Lamar Jackson, the team struggled with consistency and late-game execution.
The official announcement from the team’s front office confirmed that they would be “parting ways” with their long-time leader.
Marking a definitive end to an eighteen-year partnership that defined a generation of AFC North football.
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Did John Harbaugh get fired from the Ravens
Harbaugh: Fans and analysts have spent the day asking: did John Harbaugh get fired from the Ravens, or was it a mutual agreement?
While the team’s owner, Steve Bisciotti, used diplomatic language in his press release, the reality is that the organization felt a fresh voice was needed in the locker room.
After nearly twenty years at the helm, the message had grown stale for some, and the move is being viewed across the league.
As a formal firing intended to reset the franchise’s trajectory before their Super Bowl window closes.
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Jim Harbaugh
Harbaugh: While one brother faces an uncertain future, Jim Harbaugh continues to find immense success on the West Coast.
Having revitalized the Los Angeles Chargers, Jim has proven that his smash-mouth brand of football still works in the modern NFL.
The contrast between the two Harbaugh brothers is stark this week; as John clears out his office in Owings Mills, Jim is preparing his team for a deep postseason run.
Speculation is already mounting that John might join Jim’s staff in a consultant role or take a year off to observe his brother’s quest for a championship.
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Jesse Minter
Harbaugh: The fallout from the coaching change in Baltimore also puts a spotlight on the “Harbaugh coaching tree,” specifically Jesse Minter.
Minter, who has served as a defensive mastermind under both brothers, is now a primary candidate for several head coaching vacancies.
As the Ravens look for a replacement, some wonder if they might look back toward the Harbaugh system by hiring a protégé like Minter.
If they will pivot entirely to an offensive-minded guru to maximize their investment in the quarterback position.
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NFL head coach firings
Harbaugh: This move is part of a larger trend in the NFL head coach firings this cycle. The 2025-2026 season has been particularly brutal for veteran coaches.
As teams prioritize younger, analytically-driven play-callers. John Harbaugh’s exit is the most high-profile among the fired NFL coaches this January.
Proving that even a championship pedigree doesn’t offer permanent job security in a “what have you done for me lately” league.
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John Harbaugh salary
The financial implications of this move are also significant.
With a John Harbaugh salary estimated at $12 million per year and a contract that was set to run through 2027, the Ravens are facing a massive buyout.
However, given John’s reputation, it is unlikely he will remain unemployed for long.
Whether he moves into a high-level executive role or takes over another struggling franchise, his influence on the game will remain.
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Conclusion
The departure of John Harbaugh marks the end of an iconic chapter in Baltimore sports.
While the decision to move on was difficult, the organization is clearly prioritizing a new direction to reignite their championship aspirations.
John leaves behind a legacy of excellence, a Super Bowl ring, and a blueprint for leadership that will be studied for years to come.
As the Ravens begin their search for a new head coach, the NFL community waits to see where this legendary coach will land next.