“I followed my instincts”: Inside Steve Bisciotti stunning decision to fire John Harbaugh and reset the Ravens

For the first time since making one of the most consequential decisions in franchise history, Baltimore Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti publicly explained why he chose to part ways with longtime head coach John Harbaugh, ending an 18-year partnership that included a Super Bowl title and sustained regular-season success.

Speaking during an hour-long news conference at the Ravens’ facility, Bisciotti described the move as deeply emotional, instinct-driven, and rooted in a belief that the organization was trending in the wrong direction.

“It was the craziest firing in the world,” Bisciotti said. “I was the one choked up and he was the one consoling me.”

Why Bisciotti Decided the Time Had Come

Bisciotti acknowledged that the decision was not sudden. He said discussions about potentially moving on from Harbaugh began three to four weeks earlier, following a series of late-season collapses, including blown fourth-quarter leads against division rivals and playoff hopefuls.

The final turning point came after Baltimore’s season-ending loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers, a game that kept the Ravens out of the playoffs. When asked whether Harbaugh would still be the coach had kicker Tyler Loop made a critical field goal, Bisciotti replied bluntly: “For a week.”

Since drafting Lamar Jackson in 2018, the Ravens have won 86 regular-season games, yet failed to reach the Super Bowl. According to ESPN Research, that total is tied for the second-most wins over an eight-year span without a Super Bowl appearance.

“I just got to the point where I didn’t believe I would regret the decision,” Bisciotti said. “That’s what instinct is.”

Playoff Underperformance and Late-Game Collapses

Bisciotti cited two primary football reasons for the move: blown fourth-quarter leads and consistent playoff underachievement.

Baltimore surrendered multiple double-digit leads this season and posted a 3–6 playoff record during the Harbaugh–Jackson era, despite frequently entering the postseason as a top seed. After hosting the AFC Championship Game in 2023, the Ravens regressed to a divisional-round exit last year and missed the playoffs entirely this season.

“Winning organizations don’t give up big leads late,” Bisciotti said. “We underperformed based on our seeding. That’s very disappointing.”

An Emotional but Amicable Separation

Despite the shocking nature of the move, Bisciotti emphasized that the split was respectful and deeply personal. He admitted apologizing to Harbaugh for firing him over the phone and said the two spoke again days later about future coaching opportunities.

“I couldn’t stand people attacking my friend,” Bisciotti said. “Part of my instinct was that John gets to start anew, and be everyone’s No. 1 choice again.”

Bisciotti called the decision the hardest of his ownership tenure, adding that Harbaugh ultimately “took the fall” for a broader organizational decline.

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What Bisciotti Wants in the Next Head Coach

The Ravens have already begun an extensive coaching search led by GM Eric DeCosta, Sashi Brown, and Ozzie Newsome. Bisciotti said he will not lead the process but made clear he is open to hiring second-chance head coaches who previously took difficult jobs.

He expressed no preference for an offensive or defensive-minded coach and said the next hire must be capable of winning a Super Bowl.

“This is the best opening in this cycle,” Bisciotti said.

Lamar Jackson’s Role and Long-Term Future

Bisciotti forcefully shut down speculation about trading Lamar Jackson, whose salary-cap hit is set to rise sharply next season.

“I want him to be my quarterback,” Bisciotti said.

He confirmed that Jackson was consulted on the Harbaugh decision and will be involved in the final stages of the coaching search, though Bisciotti emphasized the ultimate authority remains with ownership.

Bisciotti also revealed urgency around negotiating a new contract extension with Jackson before free agency, hoping to avoid prolonged negotiations that could hinder roster construction.

Roster Priorities and Confidence in Eric DeCosta

Looking ahead, Bisciotti identified pass rush and offensive line consistency as major offseason priorities. Baltimore ranked among the league’s lowest teams in sacks, while Jackson absorbed heavy pressure despite missing games.

While acknowledging shortcomings in player development, Bisciotti expressed strong confidence in DeCosta.

“I think Eric is one of the best GMs in the league,” Bisciotti said. “I’m very pleased with Eric.”

FAQ

Who is Steve Bisciotti?

Steve Bisciotti is the owner of the Baltimore Ravens and has held majority ownership since 2004.

Why did Steve Bisciotti fire John Harbaugh?

Bisciotti cited late-game collapses, playoff underperformance, and a belief the team was trending downward despite regular-season success.

How long did John Harbaugh coach the Ravens?

Harbaugh coached the Ravens for 18 seasons, winning one Super Bowl and becoming the franchise’s winningest head coach.

Was the decision sudden?

No. Bisciotti said he had been considering the move for several weeks and finalized it after the loss to Pittsburgh.

Does Steve Bisciotti want Lamar Jackson traded?

No. Bisciotti clearly stated he wants Lamar Jackson to remain the Ravens’ quarterback long term.

Will Lamar Jackson be involved in hiring the next coach?

Yes, Bisciotti said Jackson will have input during final stages, though ownership retains final authority.

What qualities does Bisciotti want in the next coach?

He wants a coach capable of winning a Super Bowl and is open to second-chance head coaches.

What are the Ravens’ offseason priorities?

Improving the pass rush, stabilizing the offensive line, extending Lamar Jackson, and hiring a new head coach.