The ultimate betrayal? Why a Harbaugh-Stefanski coach swap between Ravens and Browns just might happen

Andy McNamara

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The ultimate betrayal? Why a Harbaugh-Stefanski coach swap between Ravens and Browns just might happen image

In the chaotic 48 hours following the firings of John Harbaugh and Kevin Stefanski, the AFC North has shifted into a full-blown identity crisis.

As both the Browns and Ravens search for new leadership, an unprecedented "rivalry swap" is no longer just fan fiction—it’s the most logical, high-stakes solution for two teams desperate to become division contenders as fast as possible.

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Harbaugh would bring instant organization stability to Cleveland. The Browns have had 12 different head coaches (including interim) since 1999.

Unlike Stefanski, who was often bogged down in play-calling, Harbaugh operates as a high-level CEO, allowing him to fix the Browns' persistent undisciplined mistakes on offense, and special teams blunders.

Browns analyst Daryl Ruiter from 92.3 The FAN makes an intriguing point above. To do "whatever" it takes would certainly involve changing the current organizational structure.

There is no way that Harbaugh would ever sign off on not having control over key roster moves (such as who the quarterbacks are), like Stefanski allowed.

Kevin Stefanski

For the Ravens, bringing in Stefanski gives them a fresh voice from Harbaugh who's been with the franchise since 2008.

The two-time NFL Coach of the Year’s zone-run scheme and play-action passing game is a dream fit for Lamar Jackson. He turned Joe Flacco into a Comeback Player of the Year in 2023; imagine what he could do with a healthy Lamar.

Plus, Stefanski loves two tight end formations, and the Ravens have two playmakers in Mark Andrews and Isaiah Likely.

It may seem like a fever dream idea at first, but a Harbaugh-Stefanski swap could actually make a lot of sense for both franchises.

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Staff Writer