John Harbaugh Fired After 18 Seasons as Ravens Head Coach
John Harbaugh, who had been the head coach of the Baltimore Ravens for 18 years, was let go yesterday, marking a significant end to his tenure. This decision came just two days after the Ravens wrapped up the 2025 season with a disappointing 8-9 record, failing to secure the AFC North title or a spot in the playoffs after a last-minute field goal miss during a 26-24 defeat to the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 18.
In the short period between the Ravens’ season conclusion and Harbaugh’s dismissal, Jason Whitlock, an NFL commentator for BlazeTV, had predicted this outcome. He criticized the final play of the game, where star running back Derrick Henry was sidelined while quarterback Lamar Jackson opted to take a knee, resulting in a failed field goal attempt by the rookie kicker. Whitlock described it as a “fireable crime” for Harbaugh.
The following day, the Ravens confirmed Harbaugh’s firing through an official statement from owner Steve Bisciotti.
In a recent episode of “Fearless,” Whitlock addressed this unexpected news, discussing its wider ramifications.
He noted, “Harbaugh and Lamar Jackson popularized the entire RPO offense that has taken the NFL by storm,” referring to them as the emblematic figures of the run-pass option strategy.
Whitlock questioned the fairness of Harbaugh’s dismissal, stating, “Was he fired because Tyler Loop missed a kick? It seems excessive, especially in a year where Lamar Jackson dealt with significant injuries.”
Further details from Whitlock indicated that the issue might not have been solely about Harbaugh, but rather his commitment to offensive coordinator Todd Monken. Reports suggested that the Ravens’ management had intentions to part ways with Monken, something Harbaugh opposed.
“Lamar Jackson apparently had no problems with John Harbaugh; his concerns were directed at the offensive coordinator,” Whitlock clarified.
He added another layer, stating, “If Harbaugh is fired, Mike Tomlin of the Pittsburgh Steelers could face similar pressures.”
Whitlock emphasized that if Harbaugh’s job could be at risk over performance, then Tomlin would likely feel the heat as well, especially with the Steelers facing the Houston Texans in their upcoming playoff game.
“The scrutiny is intense on Mike Tomlin now. How will he fare if he loses to the Texans? If they can fire John Harbaugh, they can let anyone go,” he stated.
For more insights from Whitlock, you can check out the latest episode linked above.

