Ravens Take Their Time in Coaching Search - And That Might Be the Smartest Play Yet
When the Baltimore Ravens made the stunning decision to part ways with longtime head coach John Harbaugh after 18 seasons, it immediately turned heads across the NFL. A franchise known for its stability and success was suddenly in the market for a new leader - and that kind of vacancy doesn’t come around often. Naturally, Baltimore shot to the top of the list as one of the most attractive head coaching destinations this offseason.
But while four of the league’s ten head coaching vacancies have already been filled, the Ravens are still deep in the evaluation process. Two of those four hires - Kevin Stefanski (now with the Falcons) and Robert Saleh (now with the Titans) - were once considered potential fits in Baltimore. But with those names off the board, the Ravens still have 14 candidates in play from their original list of 17.
So, is it time to worry that Baltimore is falling behind?
Not exactly. In fact, if history is any guide, this might be Baltimore doing what Baltimore does best: playing the long game and trusting their process.
A Draft-Day Mentality
ESPN’s Adam Schefter offered some insight into the Ravens' approach, and it sounds a lot like how they’ve handled their NFL Draft strategy over the years - methodical, patient, and confident.
“The way the Ravens are approaching this hiring cycle, to me, is very similar to the way that they draft,” Schefter said on his podcast. “They watch all the teams in front of them make their moves, and then the Baltimore Ravens step in and make their selection with whatever greatness is left.”
That’s a philosophy Ravens fans have seen work time and again. Let others reach, panic, or overpay - Baltimore waits, evaluates, and often walks away with a gem.
And according to Schefter, none of the four hires made so far were likely to be Baltimore’s top choice anyway. Even with some public buzz around Stefanski and Saleh, it appears there wasn’t strong mutual interest.
Still in the Playoff Picture
A big reason for the delay? Some of the Ravens’ top targets are still coaching - and still winning - in the playoffs.
Of the 17 candidates the team has either interviewed or requested to speak with, six are still in contention for a Super Bowl run. That means Baltimore can’t bring them in for in-person interviews until after the Conference Championship games.
It’s a waiting game, but one that could pay off in a big way.
Take Klint Kubiak, for example. The Seattle Seahawks offensive coordinator has emerged as a hot name across the league, and his potential pairing with Lamar Jackson is an intriguing one. Kubiak’s offensive creativity, combined with Jackson’s dynamic skillset, could unlock a new level of explosiveness in Baltimore’s offense.
Narrowing the Field
While the Ravens wait on some playoff-bound candidates, they’ve already begun their second round of interviews with three known finalists:
- Anthony Weaver, defensive coordinator for the Miami Dolphins. A former Ravens assistant, Weaver knows the organization and brings a fiery, player-focused leadership style.
- Joe Brady, offensive coordinator for the Buffalo Bills.
Known for his work developing quarterbacks, Brady’s offensive acumen could be a strong fit for maximizing Jackson’s prime years.
- Jesse Minter, defensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Chargers. Minter has deep ties to the Ravens’ coaching tree and has earned praise for his tactical mind and ability to adjust mid-game.
Who else joins that group in the coming days remains to be seen, but Baltimore is clearly being deliberate. They’re not rushing to make a splash - they’re looking for the right fit.
Trusting the Process
It’s easy to look around the league and feel the pressure to move quickly. But the Ravens have never been a franchise that chases headlines. They build, they develop, and they win - often by staying true to their identity.
This coaching search is no different. It may be slower than some fans would like, but there’s a method to the patience.
The Ravens aren’t just looking for a coach. They’re looking for a leader who can carry forward a legacy of toughness, innovation, and sustained success.
And if their track record is any indication, they’ll find him.