The Ravens’ head coaching search is heating up, and one familiar face is firmly in the mix. Jesse Minter, the Chargers’ defensive coordinator and a former Baltimore assistant, is reportedly interviewing in person for the Ravens’ head coaching vacancy today - a strong sign that he’s one of the leading candidates as the organization narrows its list.
Minter, 42, has built a reputation as a sharp defensive mind with a deep understanding of both the college and pro games. His coaching journey started back in 2006 as a defensive intern at Notre Dame, and from there, he climbed through the college ranks with stops at Cincinnati, Indiana State, and Georgia State.
But it was his NFL break with the Ravens in 2017 that set the stage for his rise. By 2020, he was the team’s defensive backs coach, and those years in Baltimore helped shape the foundation of his pro coaching identity.
After a brief stint as Vanderbilt’s defensive coordinator in 2021, Minter took over the Michigan defense and made an immediate impact. That success followed him to Los Angeles, where he joined Jim Harbaugh’s Chargers staff in 2024.
Under Minter, the Chargers defense flourished in 2025 - finishing fifth in points allowed, ninth in total defense, eighth against the run, and fifth against the pass. That kind of balance and production across all levels of the defense speaks volumes about his ability to scheme, adjust, and develop talent.
He’s not the only candidate in the running, though. The Ravens have cast a wide net, and the list of interviewees is both deep and diverse.
Among the other finalists are Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver and Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady, both of whom are scheduled to meet with the team. Minter, notably, has already completed his in-person interview.
Beyond the finalists, Baltimore has taken a thorough approach, interviewing a wide range of candidates from across the league. That group includes Chiefs offensive coordinator Matt Nagy, Seahawks OC Klint Kubiak, Broncos QB coach Davis Webb, Broncos DC Vance Joseph, former Commanders OC Kliff Kingsbury, Vikings DC Brian Flores, Browns DC Jim Schwartz, 49ers DC Robert Saleh, Rams DC Chris Shula, Rams pass game coordinator Nate Scheelhaase, Jaguars DC Anthony Campanile, and Broncos assistant HC/special teams coordinator Darren Rizzi - who is expected to interview. Former Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel is also scheduled to meet with the team.
It’s clear the Ravens are leaving no stone unturned in this search. They’re looking for the right leader to guide a franchise that’s been synonymous with defensive excellence and strong organizational culture.
Minter, with his Baltimore roots and a standout season in Los Angeles under his belt, brings both familiarity and fresh perspective. He knows the building, understands the expectations, and has shown he can deliver results at the highest level.
As the process moves into its final stages, all eyes will be on how the Ravens weigh experience, scheme fit, and leadership style. Minter’s resume checks a lot of boxes. Whether that’s enough to land him the job remains to be seen, but one thing’s for sure - he’s firmly in the conversation.