Ravens, John Harbaugh Agree on Contract Extension

by
Former Writers
January 23, 2019

Keith Allison via Flickr

John Harbaugh Inks Ravens’ Extension Amid Firing Rumors

John Harbaugh took over the Baltimore Ravens’ head coaching job 11 years ago, and is now the fourth-longest tenured head coach in the NFL today. The veteran head coach had a rough start to the 2018 season, but improved from 4-5 to 10-6, finishing first in the AFC North. However, the strong finish was not enough to stop rumors that Harbaugh was on the hot seat due to just one playoff appearance in the last four years. Even though he had one year remaining on his contract, analysts assumed the coach was on the chopping block. Next thing we know, John Harbaugh is negotiating a contract extension.

Via @mortreport: Ravens’ HC John Harbaugh is nearing an agreement on a contract extension, according to a source familiar with negotiations.
The source said there is an agreement in principle with “some lawyer stuff left to do.”

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 19, 2019

New Era

Not only did Harbaugh lead his team to the playoffs, but a new franchise quarterback emerged. The 56-year old coach named Lamar Jackson as starting QB in Week 11, which ultimately saved his job. They ended the season on a 6-1 run, securing a playoff spot, and leaving fans excited for 2019. The contract extension for John Harbaugh gave proof that the front office has faith in him as he develops his young quarterback.

The Ravens have one of the best defenses in the league and, with the addition of an athletic quarterback, they could make a deep playoff run next year.

Harbaugh is likely the most effective coach in the franchise history and arguably better than any coach on the market. Given that strong head coaching candidates are lacking, the Ravens will have a distinct disadvantage going into 2019 with Harbaugh. If Harbaugh was fired, though, it would push the Ravens back further. Moreover, current Ravens players have voiced confidence in Harbaugh, as well as much of the fan base.

Harbaugh’s Raven Legacy

John Harbaugh’s record is 104-71 in the 11 seasons he has coached in Baltimore. Six of those 11 seasons resulted in a 10+ win records. Harbaugh notably coached the Ravens to a Super Bowl victory in 2012 after a historic season. The longtime head coach has seven years of playoff experience and has proven himself to be one of the all-time greats. John Harbaugh’s contract extension is a boost of confidence for the franchise. He has a stout defense, a talented young quarterback, and the fan base behind him as the team enters 2019.