The Baltimore Ravens have officially begun their search for a new head coach following the dismissal of John Harbaugh, a move that was fueled by the team’s disappointing performance and a breakdown in the relationship between Harbaugh and star quarterback Lamar Jackson. As part of this search, the Ravens have interviewed Kevin Stefanski, the recently fired head coach of the Cleveland Browns.
Stefanski, who has six seasons of experience with the Browns and a record of 46-58, is recognized for guiding Cleveland to the playoffs twice—a significant achievement for a franchise known for its struggles. Despite a disappointing 2025 season that saw the Browns finish with a 5-12 record, many within the NFL believe that this decline cannot solely be attributed to Stefanski. The Browns’ challenges stemmed largely from a revolving door of quarterbacks and an inability to establish a consistent offensive strategy.
His leadership reputation has grown, notably marked by being named NFL Coach of the Year in both 2020 and 2023. However, the Ravens are evaluating multiple candidates, including fellow coaches who have faced recent firings, such as Jonathan Gannon and Raheem Morris. Stefanski’s experience makes him a contender, but he must also demonstrate the ability to connect with and maximize the talents of Lamar Jackson, a crucial requirement after the discord witnessed under Harbaugh.
Harbaugh’s tenure with the Ravens was largely successful, boasting a 180-113 record since 2008, yet the lack of a Super Bowl appearance since the 2012 season has raised concerns. Critics point to the Ravens’ tendency to blow double-digit leads as a sign of underlying issues, while supporters suggest his consistent winning seasons should warrant more patience from the front office.
Reports from NFL insiders indicate that the key issue revolved around Harbaugh’s strained relationship with Jackson, causing a ripple effect throughout the locker room and leading players to question their commitment to him. Once confidence is lost, especially in a prominent figure like Jackson, it becomes increasingly challenging for a coach to rally the team.
For Stefanski, the immediate challenge will not only be to adjust tactical frameworks but to effectively regain the trust and leadership within the team that Harbaugh had lost, particularly with Jackson. As the Ravens look to rebuild and rejuvenate, this new chapter presents an opportunity for Stefanski to prove his mettle in navigating both relations and expectations while returning the Ravens to competitive form.