John Harbaugh Reflects on 18 Years as Ravens Head Coach

The longtime Baltimore coach shares memories, friendships, and lessons from his historic tenure.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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John Harbaugh, who was hired as the Baltimore Ravens' head coach in 2008 after a long stint as a special teams coach with the Philadelphia Eagles, is reflecting on his 18-year tenure leading the Ravens. In a recent interview, Harbaugh looked back fondly on the friendships, relationships, and experiences that defined his time in Baltimore, calling it "the best 18 years" and saying he has "no regrets" about his historic run with the franchise.

Why it matters

Harbaugh's tenure as Ravens head coach is one of the longest in the NFL, and he led the team to a Super Bowl championship in 2012. His reflections provide insight into the personal and professional impact his time in Baltimore had on him, and highlight the lasting legacy he will leave on the team and the city.

The details

Harbaugh was hired as the Ravens' head coach in 2008 after the team parted ways with Brian Billick. At the time, Harbaugh was a relatively unknown special teams coach with the Philadelphia Eagles, but he quickly made his mark in Baltimore, leading the team to consistent playoff appearances and a Super Bowl title in 2012.

  • Harbaugh was hired as Ravens head coach in 2008.
  • The Ravens won the Super Bowl in 2012 under Harbaugh's leadership.
  • Harbaugh reflected on his 18-year tenure with the Ravens in a recent interview in 2026.

The players

John Harbaugh

The head coach of the Baltimore Ravens from 2008 to 2026, leading the team to a Super Bowl championship in 2012.

Brian Billick

The previous head coach of the Baltimore Ravens, who was let go following the 2007 season.

Jason Garrett

A coaching candidate who was offered the Ravens head coaching job but turned it down, leading to the hiring of John Harbaugh.

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What they’re saying

“It was the best 18 years... It was just wonderful friendships, great relationships, players, coaches, people in the building who I love always will... I'm proud of it, happy for it, no regrets.”

— John Harbaugh, Former Ravens Head Coach (The Ryan Ripken Show)

The takeaway

Harbaugh's reflections on his 18-year tenure with the Ravens highlight the deep personal connections and lasting impact he had on the team and the city of Baltimore. His successful run, including a Super Bowl championship, cemented his legacy as one of the most successful and respected coaches in Ravens history.