The Baltimore Ravens franchise fired John Harbaugh after 18 seasons. Reportedly, the team learned of the news on social media.
According to Athletic commentator Jerry Brewer, change in sports is how the owners “signal ambition and reassure agitated fans.” The Ravens had created an infrastructure of continuity which enabled them to not panic during downturns, develop identities without upheaval and enjoyed an environment where they knew frustration did not mandate disruption. That alignment from owner to front office to head coach is now gone, according to Brewer and the franchise is now in an unstable market that can conflate motion and progress.
Brewer asserts the Ravens were built to endure and have done so since the first draft after Art Modell relocated the franchise from Cleveland. They have “created an operational blueprint and culture designed to last.” In 1996, the Ravens two first -round picks, Jonathan Ogden, left tackle, and linebacker Ray Lewis became Hall of Famers and played their entire careers for the Ravens and delivered their first Super Bowl win.
The Ravens franchise spent 30 years nurturing their star power. The franchise has had three head coaches. The last two, Brian Billick and Jim Harbaugh were granted the Lombardi Trophy. As head coach, Billick had a .556 winning percentage throughout his nine seasons. Harbaugh has a .614 winning percentage and 193 victories, including the playoffs.
The franchise has had two quarterbacks since 2008, Joe Flacco and Lamar Jackson who has earned the MVP title twice. The Ravens choose not to make a trade for temporary fixes. Once they draft a player, they develop him and for their efforts to grow their own, they have been accused of becoming stagnate.
Harbaugh was not fired because this model was no longer working. The head coach was relieved of his position because sustained success was no longer sufficient, according to Brewer. Now, Harbaugh is the hottest candidate in the NFL.
What Is Next for Harbaugh?
The head coach is choosing to hold out to see if after the six games to be played over the weekend will garner more options. At this time nine teams have shown interest in Harbaugh. Non-options for the head coach include the Charger, Patriots, Broncos, Jaguars, Rams, Seahawks, 49ers, Texans, and Bears.
Some believe the Eagles would bring Harbaugh back. He spent 10 years in Philly before taking on the Ravens. Despite the accomplishments of Nick Sirianni over his five season, there is a belief the Eagles are talented but not operating at an optimal level.
The two NFL teams to watch are the Bills and the Packers. Green Bay’s team president has stated the decision to re-sign Matt LaFleur will be made at the end of the season. Two weeks ago the Ravens overtook the Packers 41-24 at Lambeau Field.
Los Angeles Chargers’ head coach Jim Harbaugh, believes he will be playing against his older brother next year. Although, like many others, he was surprised his brother was fired from the Ravens. “John Harbaugh’s the best coach I know, the best coach I’ve ever seen. I’m his brother, so I might be biased.”
In 18 years, Harbaugh has won 61.4 percent of his games. Including postseason games, he went 193-124 in Baltimore and led them to the AFC Championship four times, including their Super Bowl Season. That Super Bowl was brother against brother.
Jim Harbaugh said, “It’s so cool to see all my brother’s accomplishments and be recognized for that.”
By Jeanette Vietti
Sources:
The Athletic: Ravens take big risk by doing what rest if the NFL would do: Firing John Harbaugh
NBC Sports: One or more playoff teams could be lurking for John Harbaugh
ESPN: Jim Harbaugh hails John, hopes he’s NFC-bound
Featured Image Courtesy of Josh Hall’s Flickr Page – Creative Commons License
