The NFL’s 2026 coaching carousel exploded into overdrive on January 6, 2026, when the Baltimore Ravens shockingly fired legendary head coach John Harbaugh after 18 seasons. Just hours later, reports emerged that Harbaugh is already the hottest name on the market, with interest pouring in from teams with vacancies—and even some that currently have head coaches.
According to NFL insider Dianna Russini of The Athletic, “John Harbaugh has interest from most teams with head coaching vacancies, but notably, I’m told calls are also coming in from a few teams that currently have a head coach in place. Lots of discussions going down tonight. Harbaugh will be at the top of many teams’ wishlists.”
This development has sent shockwaves through the league, positioning the 63-year-old Harbaugh as the clear No. 1 candidate in a hiring cycle that already features multiple openings.
Why John Harbaugh Was Fired by the Ravens
Harbaugh’s tenure in Baltimore ended abruptly after the Ravens finished the 2025 season with an 8-9 record, missing the playoffs following a loss to the rival Pittsburgh Steelers. Despite leading the team to a Super Bowl XLVII victory in 2013 and compiling an impressive 165-102-1 regular-season record, ownership decided it was time for a change.
Harbaugh had been the NFL’s second-longest-tenured head coach behind only Bill Belichick (in his prior role). His era included 12 playoff appearances and consistent contention in the AFC North, but recent years saw frustrations mount, including reports of tension in the locker room.
Sources indicate Harbaugh is eager to return to coaching in 2026, instantly elevating him above other available names like former coordinators or recently fired coaches.
Potential John Harbaugh Landing Spots in 2026
With Harbaugh now available, several teams are poised to pursue him aggressively. Current head coaching vacancies as of January 7, 2026, include:
- New York Giants (fired Brian Daboll mid-season)
- Atlanta Falcons (fired Raheem Morris)
- Cleveland Browns
- Las Vegas Raiders
- Arizona Cardinals
- Tennessee Titans
- Baltimore Ravens (ironically now open)
Early speculation points to the Giants, Falcons, and Browns as prime destinations, given their need for proven leadership and stability. Harbaugh’s track record of turning teams into contenders makes him an ideal fit for franchises seeking immediate credibility.
More intriguingly, Russini’s report suggests inquiries from teams with sitting head coaches—potentially signaling mid-cycle changes if owners view Harbaugh as an upgrade. Names like the Cincinnati Bengals (Zac Taylor) or even the Miami Dolphins have popped up in fan speculation, though nothing is confirmed.
Betting odds have already shifted, with Harbaugh favored for several jobs. His agent has reportedly fielded calls from at least seven teams in the first 24 hours post-firing.
What Makes John Harbaugh the Top NFL Head Coaching Candidate?
Harbaugh’s resume speaks for itself:
- Super Bowl champion (2013)
- 165 regular-season wins (franchise record for Ravens)
- Multiple AFC Championship appearances
- Reputation for strong culture, player development, and adaptability
In an era where teams often gamble on unproven offensive coordinators, Harbaugh offers rare proven success. He’s widely respected for his leadership style, which emphasizes toughness, accountability, and innovation—qualities that could transform struggling franchises overnight.
2026 NFL Coaching Carousel: Harbaugh Changes Everything
The addition of Harbaugh to the market has jolted the entire hiring process. Teams that might have settled for rising assistants now have a Hall of Fame-caliber option available. Expect intense competition, with interviews likely starting soon under NFL rules.
As the offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on where Harbaugh lands next. Could he return to the AFC North with a rival? Revive a dormant NFC franchise? One thing is certain: John Harbaugh’s next team will instantly become a contender.
Stay tuned for updates on John Harbaugh’s next team, NFL coaching news, and the full 2026 hiring cycle. The carousel is spinning faster than ever.