Ravens embracing 'new energy' under head coach Jesse Minter

Players express appreciation for John Harbaugh while excited for fresh start with Minter's staff

Apr. 8, 2026 at 10:48pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting depicting fragmented scenes of a Ravens football practice, with overlapping planes of deep purple, steel grey, and burnt orange colors conveying the dynamic energy of the team's new era under Jesse Minter.The Ravens' coaching transition brings a fresh, energetic perspective to the team as they look to rebound in the 2026 season.Owings Mills Today

The Baltimore Ravens have begun their offseason workout program under new head coach Jesse Minter, who took over after the team fired longtime coach John Harbaugh. Players like Kyle Hamilton, Zay Flowers, and Mark Andrews spoke about their appreciation for Harbaugh's tenure while also expressing excitement for the 'new energy' and changes brought by Minter's staff.

Why it matters

The Ravens' coaching change represents a significant shift for the franchise after nearly two decades under Harbaugh. How the players adapt to Minter's leadership and new schemes will be crucial as the team looks to rebound from a disappointing 2025 season and return to the playoffs.

The details

The Ravens became the first NFL team to start their offseason program this week, marking an unofficial turning of the page. Many of the team's top players, including Lamar Jackson, Derrick Henry, Zay Flowers, and Kyle Hamilton, have been present and participating in workouts. The players praised Minter's energy and communication so far, with tight end Mark Andrews saying the new staff has emphasized building chemistry. The Ravens have lost several key free agents this offseason, so GM Eric DeCosta has work to do to fill holes on the offensive and defensive lines, at tight end, and in the secondary.

  • The Ravens' offseason workout program began on Monday, April 7, 2026.
  • John Harbaugh was fired as Ravens head coach three months ago.

The players

Kyle Hamilton

Ravens standout safety who was initially shocked by Harbaugh's firing but is now excited for the 'new energy' under Minter.

Zay Flowers

Ravens wide receiver who appreciated Harbaugh but is also eager to 'start over' with the new coaching staff.

Mark Andrews

Ravens tight end who praised the new coaching staff's emphasis on communication and building chemistry.

Jesse Minter

The Ravens' new head coach, who previously served as a defensive assistant in Baltimore before moving on to coordinator roles with Vanderbilt, Michigan, and the Chargers.

John Harbaugh

The Ravens' former head coach of nearly two decades, who was fired and has since taken a job with the New York Giants.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“'Jesse's been awesome, and this whole coaching staff has been awesome. Just stepping in here, the energy — it feels really, really good. I'm excited about going forward, getting better and working towards our goal. These guys are fired up, so I'm excited about that.'”

— Mark Andrews, Ravens tight end

“'It's new, it's young. We have a young coaching staff, and everybody is excited to play. Coach Harbaugh, we were shocked it happened. I was shocked. Appreciate that he came and got me, and we did what he did. I'm excited for him with his job with the Giants. We're all excited to start over. It's a new energy. Everybody gets to restart with a new coaching staff.'”

— Zay Flowers, Ravens wide receiver

“'It's been great so far. This week is the first time I met him in person. I heard great things about him from guys in LA. Cam Hart, who I went to college with. (Former Raven) Tony Jefferson, who is over there. When the position opened up, they both texted me and were like, 'This is the guy you want.' It's been everything and more so far. I'm just excited for a new era of Ravens football.'”

— Kyle Hamilton, Ravens safety

What’s next

The Ravens will continue their 10-week offseason program, with the next two weeks focused on strength and conditioning, rehab, and team meetings. The team will then move into on-field practices as they prepare for the 2026 NFL season under new head coach Jesse Minter.

The takeaway

The Ravens' coaching change represents a significant shift for the franchise, but the players seem eager to embrace the 'new energy' and fresh start under Minter. While there is uncertainty around how the team will adapt to the new schemes and leadership, the early signs point to a renewed sense of excitement and determination to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 season.