John Harbaugh Reflects on Ravens Tenure, Embraces Giants Opportunity

Former Baltimore coach says he leaves with gratitude, not regret, as he begins new chapter in New York

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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In an exclusive interview, former Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh reflected on his 18-year tenure with the team, which included 12 playoff appearances and a Super Bowl title. Harbaugh expressed gratitude for the relationships and shared experiences during his time in Baltimore, rejecting the notion that recent playoff shortcomings should define the Ravens' final years under his leadership. Now tasked with leading the New York Giants through a rebuilding phase, the 63-year-old coach called the opportunity "an amazing next step" and said he's "really looking forward to it."

Why it matters

Harbaugh's departure from the Ravens marks the end of an era for one of the NFL's most consistent franchises over the past two decades. His reflections provide insight into the challenges and rewards of leading a team through both successful and difficult periods. As he takes on the rebuilding project with the Giants, Harbaugh's experience and perspective could prove invaluable in guiding the team back to relevance.

The details

In the interview with WBAL NewsRadio's Glenn Clark, Harbaugh reflected on his 18 seasons in Baltimore, highlighting the team's 12 playoff appearances and Super Bowl XLVII title. He said the relationships and shared experiences defined the run more than wins and losses, calling it "the opportunity of a lifetime." Harbaugh rejected the idea that recent playoff shortcomings should define the Ravens' final years under his leadership, noting how small moments can swing outcomes and emphasizing the team's consistent performance year after year.

  • Harbaugh spent 18 seasons as the head coach of the Baltimore Ravens.
  • The Ravens won Super Bowl XLVII during Harbaugh's tenure.
  • Harbaugh is now set to take over as the head coach of the New York Giants.

The players

John Harbaugh

The former head coach of the Baltimore Ravens, who spent 18 seasons with the team and led them to a Super Bowl championship in 2012.

New York Giants

The NFL franchise that has hired John Harbaugh as their new head coach, tasking him with leading the team through a rebuilding phase.

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What they’re saying

“I just feel really great about it. I'm really proud of it. I really feel like we accomplished a lot, and we impacted a lot of people in a lot of really great ways.”

— John Harbaugh, Former Ravens Head Coach (WBAL NewsRadio)

“Man makes his plans, but God orders his steps. I believe in that purpose.”

— John Harbaugh, Former Ravens Head Coach (WBAL NewsRadio)

What’s next

Harbaugh will begin his tenure as the head coach of the New York Giants, tasked with leading the team through a rebuilding phase and guiding them back to relevance in the NFL.

The takeaway

Harbaugh's departure from the Ravens marks the end of an era for one of the NFL's most consistent franchises, but his reflections on his time in Baltimore and his embrace of the new opportunity with the Giants suggest he is ready to apply his experience and perspective to help revive another struggling team.