The New York Giants went all-in to land John Harbaugh as their next head coach - and for a while, it looked like they had their guy. After parting ways with the Baltimore Ravens, Harbaugh quickly became one of the most sought-after names on the coaching market.
He reportedly limited his interviews to just a handful of teams, with the Giants making the shortlist. And they didn’t just knock on the door - they barged in with a $20 million-per-year offer, making it crystal clear how serious they were about bringing him to New York.
By Thursday night, reports suggested the two sides were finalizing a deal. ESPN’s Adam Schefter even noted that the contract was expected to be signed “barring a setback.” Well, that setback has arrived - and it’s a big one.
The issue? Power dynamics in the front office. Specifically, the relationship between Harbaugh and Giants general manager Joe Schoen.
According to multiple reports, including Pat Leonard of the New York Daily News, the holdup centers on control over personnel decisions. Harbaugh, who’s spent years collaborating closely with respected executives like Ozzie Newsome and Eric DeCosta in Baltimore, reportedly isn’t interested in taking a job where he doesn’t have a significant say in roster construction.
And right now, that’s a sticking point.
There are rumblings that Harbaugh wants either a restructured front office - with Schoen’s role diminished - or for Schoen to step aside entirely. That’s not a small ask, and it’s put the Giants in a tough spot.
Harbaugh’s leverage is undeniable. He’s coming off a long, successful run in Baltimore and has his pick of opportunities.
This might be the most negotiating power he’s ever had - and he knows it.
One league source put it bluntly: “Joe can’t negotiate. It becomes personal.”
That tension is reportedly what’s holding up the deal. Giants insider Jordan Raanan added that both sides are still working through “organizational and operational issues,” and while talks are ongoing, there’s still a gap to close before anything is finalized.
From the Giants’ perspective, this is a high-stakes moment. They entered the offseason needing to make a bold move - not just to energize the fan base, but to reset the direction of the franchise.
Harbaugh would’ve checked a lot of boxes. He brings instant credibility, a proven track record, and a no-nonsense approach that could help reshape the team’s identity.
But if this deal falls apart, it’s going to raise a lot of uncomfortable questions. About the front office structure.
About the level of autonomy a head coach should have. And about whether the Giants can close the deal when it matters most.
For now, the clock is ticking. Harbaugh’s interest is real, but so are his demands. And the Giants have a decision to make - not just about who’s coaching the team, but about who’s truly running the show.