The Baltimore Ravens are still in the thick of their head coaching search, nearly two weeks removed from parting ways with longtime head coach John Harbaugh. And while the list of candidates continues to grow, one of the more intriguing names to emerge is Los Angeles Rams defensive coordinator Chris Shula.
Shula sat down with the Ravens for an interview on Saturday morning-just a day before the Rams were set to face off against the Chicago Bears in the Divisional Round. At 39 years old, Shula has quickly become one of the hottest names in coaching circles, and for good reason. His résumé may be relatively short, but it’s packed with impact.
He’s been a fixture on Sean McVay’s staff since 2017, rising through the ranks from assistant linebackers coach to defensive coordinator in 2024. That kind of internal promotion within a Super Bowl-caliber organization like the Rams says a lot about how he’s viewed inside the building. But it’s not just the title that stands out-it’s what he’s done with it.
When Shula took over, the Rams’ defense was in rough shape-bottom-tier in most categories and lacking identity. Fast forward to 2025, and they finished as a top-10 scoring defense, anchored by a pair of Pro Bowlers.
That’s a rapid turnaround by NFL standards. His work with Jared Verse, who took home the 2024 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award under Shula’s guidance, underscores his ability to develop young talent and get the most out of his players.
What makes Shula even more compelling is the pedigree. He’s the grandson of Don Shula-the winningest head coach in NFL history-and the son of former Bengals head coach Dave Shula.
That football lineage doesn’t guarantee success, but it does suggest he’s been immersed in the game at a high level for most of his life. That background, combined with his recent success in L.A., makes him a legitimate contender for a top job.
The Ravens aren’t rushing the process. Shula joins a long list of candidates who’ve already interviewed for the position, including Kevin Stefanski, Mike McDaniel, Brian Flores, Jim Schwartz, Jesse Minter, Vance Joseph, Matt Nagy, Kliff Kingsbury, Anthony Weaver, Klint Kubiak, and Davis Webb.
It’s a diverse mix of offensive and defensive minds, veterans and rising stars. So far, the team hasn’t tipped its hand or narrowed the field, opting instead to cast a wide net and evaluate every angle.
Shula’s name is also circulating elsewhere-he’s already interviewed with the Dolphins and is expected to meet with the Steelers. His ties to Miami, given his family history, naturally add a layer of intrigue there. But Baltimore presents a different kind of opportunity: a franchise with a strong culture, a talented roster, and a fanbase hungry for the next chapter.
For now, the Ravens are keeping their cards close to the vest. But with Chris Shula, they’ve added a serious name to the mix-one that brings both pedigree and production to the table.