Giants Adjust Head Coaching Search After Harbaugh’s Availability

The Giants had planned to conduct interviews for their head coach position, but they had to change their approach with the sudden availability of John Harbaugh. It’s not every day that a coach with his level of experience becomes free.

Harbaugh was let go by the Ravens after a lengthy 18-year tenure on Tuesday, and the Giants have expressed interest in talking to him. In fact, this applies to all teams looking for new leadership.

Now 63, Harbaugh is certainly a sought-after candidate. He boasts an impressive record of 180-113 in the regular season and has a postseason record of 13-11, including a Super Bowl victory in 2013. However, over the last 13 years, while the Ravens made the playoffs seven times, they only reached the AFC Championship Game once. His recent season ended with a disappointing 8-9 record in 2025, missing the playoffs after a particularly tough loss to the Steelers in Week 18. Right now, he’s still in Baltimore, contemplating his next steps.

This isn’t a regular situation where a former head coach becomes available. Perhaps Harbaugh is looking for a fresh start, and if he indeed wants to step back into a head coaching role in 2026, he’ll need to act quickly.

Initially, it seemed the Giants’ process would drag on, but now their timeline is even more uncertain. They’re keeping an eye on the first playoff round involving Mike Tomlin and the Steelers, as well as Matt LaFleur and the Packers. Depending on their performances this weekend, either or both coaches could find themselves dismissed. This scenario could lead to a competitive scramble for high-profile candidates amid a flurry of offers.

On a related note, Giants general manager Joe Schoen knows Shane well from their shared time in the league. While it’s not essential that Schoen has past ties to candidates, it certainly helps. The Giants plan to interview Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph, and thankfully, he won’t need to introduce himself to Schoen.

Also on the Giants’ radar is Kevin Stefanski, who was released by the Browns shortly after the season concluded. He has an interview scheduled for Wednesday. Additionally, Colts defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo will also be in for a chat; he has ties to Staten Island and worked as a defensive assistant with the Giants in 2018.

Schoen and Joseph previously worked together with the Dolphins back in 2016. That year was quite successful for Miami, with the team making the playoffs after a remarkable winning streak, largely thanks to the strong performance of Joseph’s defense.

Joseph, now 53, has not just been a coordinator; he has served as a head coach before. His tenure with the Broncos saw him finish at 5-11 in 2017. After a setback, he returned to Denver in 2023 after a strong stint with the Cardinals. Under his guidance this season, the Broncos’ defense played a key role in securing a 14-3 record, an AFC West title, and the top seed in the playoffs. Notably, his unit ranked strongly in various defensive categories.

Schoen has made it clear: the search will be broad, and they’ll consider candidates from all backgrounds, be it offensive or defensive, special teams, or even from college ranks. The aim is to find the best fit for their franchise.

Since the Broncos have a bye in the first playoff round, Joseph’s interview with the Giants will take place virtually over the next few days. According to reports, he’s also in discussions with the Cardinals, Raiders, and Titans.

Similarly, Anarumo shares a past connection with Schoen, having worked together in Miami for five years.