The Baltimore Ravens are ushering in a new era with their 2026 coaching staff, signaling a shift towards modern football dynamics. The departure of John Harbaugh and the arrival of Jesse Minter as head coach highlight this change. Minter, alongside offensive coordinator Declan Doyle, defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver, and special teams coordinator Anthony Levine, forms a youthful and ambitious team ready to tackle the challenges ahead.
Despite their relative inexperience, the new coaching staff is under pressure to quickly establish a strong presence, especially after a disappointing 2025 season. They've already begun setting the tone for the upcoming year.
One hot topic in Baltimore is the attendance at organized team activities (OTAs). While these sessions are voluntary, Declan Doyle has made it clear that he expects full participation. During a recent press conference, Doyle laid out his vision for the team.
“We would expect them to be here and, certainly, it is voluntary,” Doyle said. “But if you wanna say that you’re gonna win a championship, you wanna say that you have championship standards, and those are your goals and your expectations, certainly that’s gonna take work…That’s gonna take the beginning of building the relationship with their coaches, other players, starting off this next regime on the right foot.”
Building strong relationships with players is crucial, both on and off the field. This connection is essential for the Ravens' success in 2026, and OTA participation plays a significant role in this process.
Last year, some veterans, including quarterback Lamar Jackson, wide receiver Rashod Bateman, and others, were absent from OTAs. While these players were familiar with Harbaugh's system, the new coaching regime requires a fresh approach.
Though some players may already have rapport with Minter, Weaver, and Levine due to their previous roles in Baltimore, the new system necessitates a deeper commitment. Participating in OTAs will be key to adapting to the changes, particularly with Doyle's offensive strategies.
Lamar Jackson's involvement in OTAs is especially critical. Despite his proven talent, building a strong relationship with Doyle is vital for a seamless transition. Doyle, at just 29, brings a relatable energy that should facilitate this connection.
This expectation extends beyond Jackson to the entire team. Players who skipped OTAs last year are likely to engage more this time around, aligning with the new coaching philosophy. As the Ravens embrace this fresh start, the team is poised to set a new tone for 2026.