The Ravens are deep into their head coaching search after parting ways with longtime leader John Harbaugh, and the shortlist is starting to take shape. While former Commanders offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury did get an interview, the final stretch appears to be a three-man race: Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver, Chargers DC Jesse Minter, and Bills OC Joe Brady.
But the Ravens’ decision-making process isn’t happening in a vacuum-and it’s not just front office voices in the room. Lamar Jackson, the face of the franchise and two-time league MVP, is playing an active role in helping shape the direction of the team’s next chapter. According to Dianna Russini, Jackson has been involved in the interview process, offering input on candidates and even joining meetings via Zoom.
That level of involvement speaks volumes-not just about how much the organization values Jackson’s opinion, but about how critical this hire is for maximizing his prime. And if the Ravens go with a defensive-minded head coach, there’s a clear favorite in Jackson’s camp for who should be calling the plays on offense: Kliff Kingsbury.
Russini reported that Jackson and the Ravens’ receivers have been vocal in their support of Kingsbury as a potential offensive coordinator. They like his system, his approach, and what he could bring to Baltimore’s offense. And if Anthony Weaver ends up getting the head coaching job, it sounds like Kingsbury is the likely name to pair with him as OC.
That pairing would be an intriguing one. Weaver, a former Ravens player and well-respected defensive mind, brings leadership and toughness to the table. Kingsbury, meanwhile, has a track record of quarterback development and offensive creativity-qualities that could help unlock even more from Jackson and a young, ascending receiving corps.
Kingsbury’s coaching journey has had its ups and downs. He first made his name at Texas Tech, where he led the Red Raiders from 2013 to 2018, compiling a 35-40 record and earning three bowl appearances. While the win-loss column wasn’t always kind, his offenses consistently put up big numbers, and his work with quarterbacks drew attention across the football world.
After a brief stint at USC that ended before it really began, Kingsbury jumped to the NFL, taking over as head coach of the Arizona Cardinals. Over four seasons in the desert, he went 26-33-1 and guided the team to one playoff appearance. His tenure had flashes of promise but ultimately fell short of expectations, leading to his dismissal.
He returned to USC in a more focused role as quarterbacks coach before landing with the Commanders as offensive coordinator in 2024. That partnership didn’t last, with Washington parting ways with Kingsbury earlier this week.
Now, he’s back in the mix for a potential NFL return-this time as a coordinator. And if Jackson gets his way, Kingsbury could be the one dialing up plays in Baltimore next season.
The Ravens are at a pivotal moment. With a generational quarterback under center and a roster built to contend, the next coaching hire isn’t just about scheme-it’s about synergy. Whoever takes the reins will need to connect with Jackson, build on the offensive foundation, and push this team closer to a Super Bowl.
If the final choice ends up being Anthony Weaver with Kliff Kingsbury as his offensive counterpart, it won’t just be a blend of defensive grit and offensive flair-it’ll be a clear sign that the Ravens are building around their star quarterback’s strengths and voice. And in today’s NFL, that’s how winning organizations operate.