Baltimore, January 7, 2026
The Baltimore Ravens have made the difficult decision to part ways with head coach John Harbaugh following an 8-9 season that saw the team miss the playoffs for the first time since 2021. This decision came after a close loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers, which marked the end of Harbaugh’s impressive 18-year tenure. His era included a Super Bowl victory and significant achievements, but the underperformance in recent seasons ultimately led to this pivotal decision. Fans and the community respond with mixed emotions as the team looks to select a new head coach.
Baltimore Ravens Fire Head Coach John Harbaugh After 18 Seasons
Baltimore, Maryland – The Baltimore Ravens have dismissed head coach John Harbaugh following an 8-9 season that saw the team miss the playoffs for the first time since 2021. The decision was announced on January 6, 2026, after the Ravens’ season concluded with a 26-24 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers, a game that determined the AFC North division champion. In the final moments, kicker Tyler Loop missed a potential game-winning field goal, sealing the Ravens’ fate.
Harbaugh, 63, served as the Ravens’ head coach for 18 seasons, making him the second-longest tenured coach in the NFL at the time of his firing. Under his leadership, the Ravens achieved a 193-124 record, including the postseason, and secured a Super Bowl victory in the 2012 season.
Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti expressed deep respect for Harbaugh’s contributions, stating that the decision was incredibly difficult due to the tremendous 18 years spent together and the profound respect he has for Harbaugh as a coach and a man of integrity.
Despite the recent challenges, Harbaugh’s tenure was marked by significant achievements, including multiple AFC North titles and playoff appearances. However, the underperformance of the 2025 season ultimately led to the decision to part ways. As the Ravens move forward, they face the critical task of selecting a new head coach who can restore the team to its former glory.
Recent Season Overview
The Ravens’ 2025 season was a disappointment for fans and team leadership alike. Finishing with an 8-9 record, the Ravens failed to qualify for the playoffs, marking a stark contrast to their previous seasons under Harbaugh’s leadership. The final game against their arch-rivals, the Pittsburgh Steelers, proved to be a pivotal moment, with missed opportunities ultimately costing the Ravens a shot at postseason play.
Harbaugh’s Legacy
John Harbaugh leaves a legacy of strong leadership and competitive spirit within the Ravens organization. Over 18 seasons, he guided the team to considerable success, including a celebrated Super Bowl win. His ability to cultivate talent and his commitment to the team have fostered a dedicated fan base and set a standard for future coaches.
Next Steps for the Ravens
With Harbaugh’s departure, the Ravens are tasked with finding a new head coach to lead the team through the challenges ahead. The search will likely focus on candidates who can rejuvenate the team’s performance and build on the strong foundation laid during Harbaugh’s tenure. As Baltimore looks forward, fans remain hopeful that the next leader will bring fresh energy and strategic insight to the organization.
Community Response
The decision to fire Harbaugh has elicited mixed reactions from the Baltimore community. Many fans are mourning the end of an era while understanding the necessity of change in competitive sports. Others are optimistic about new leadership and the potential for revitalization within the team. This moment underscores the relentless spirit of Baltimore as a city dedicated to growth, resilience, and community pride.
Conclusion
The Baltimore Ravens are at a significant crossroads following the dismissal of John Harbaugh. His 18-year legacy is filled with notable achievements, but the evolving dynamics of the NFL require adaptability and fresh approaches to coaching. As Baltimore embarks on a new chapter, supporting local businesses and fostering community participation will be essential to ensure that the city continues to thrive, both on and off the field.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why was John Harbaugh fired as head coach of the Baltimore Ravens?
John Harbaugh was dismissed after the Ravens finished the 2025 season with an 8-9 record, missing the playoffs for the first time since 2021. The decision followed a loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers, where a last-second field goal attempt was missed, eliminating the team from postseason contention.
What were John Harbaugh’s achievements during his tenure with the Ravens?
During his 18 seasons as head coach, Harbaugh led the Ravens to a 193-124 record, including the postseason, and secured a Super Bowl victory in the 2012 season. He also guided the team to multiple AFC North titles and playoff appearances.
Who is the longest-tenured head coach in the NFL now that Harbaugh has been fired?
With Harbaugh’s departure, Mike Tomlin of the Pittsburgh Steelers becomes the longest-tenured head coach in the NFL.
What is the next step for the Baltimore Ravens after firing John Harbaugh?
The Ravens are now tasked with selecting a new head coach to lead the team into the future.
Key Features of the Article
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | John Harbaugh fired as head coach of the Baltimore Ravens |
| Reason | 8-9 season record, missed playoffs, loss to Pittsburgh Steelers |
| Harbaugh’s Tenure | 18 seasons, 193-124 record, Super Bowl victory in 2012 |
| Owner’s Statement | Steve Bisciotti expressed deep respect for Harbaugh’s contributions |
| Next Steps | Ravens to select a new head coach |
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Author: STAFF HERE BALTIMORE WRITER
The BALTIMORE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBaltimore.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Baltimore, Baltimore County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Baltimore Book Festival, Preakness Stakes, and Artscape. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Baltimore Chamber of Commerce and Visit Baltimore, plus leading businesses in shipping and healthcare that power the local economy such as the Port of Baltimore and Johns Hopkins Medicine. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Maryland's dynamic landscape.
