The Baltimore Ravens have had John Harbaugh lead them as head coach since 2008. Without him, there would be great change in the position for 2026 and beyond.
Although Harbaugh is on the brink of winning 200 games, including regular season and playoffs, and has a Super Bowl ring to stamp his long tenure, there's speculation that the Ravens could make a rare jolt in the organizational leadership if Baltimore's season ends prematurely.
On Sunday, ESPN's Adam Schefter reported Harbaugh's situation is "up in the air" entering Week 18. If the Ravens lose to the Steelers on Sunday night — or win but make a quick playoff exit — Schefter said Baltimore would consider parting ways with the NFL's second-longest tenured head coach.
Here's a look at the top potential new hires to replace Harbaugh if the Ravens make that choice:
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Kliff Kingsbury, Commanders offensive coordinator (age: 46)
The Ravens would get nice a boost to their offense with Lamar Jackson feeling rejuvenated in Kingsbury's system, who made a big impact on Kyler Murray and Jayden Daniels. Kingsbury deserves his second coaching shot after his fine work around the Beltway in Washington.
Brian Flores, Vikings defensive coordinator (age: 44)
Flores should be high on every candidate list with his terrific job getting the most out of the defense in Minnesota to support Kevin O'Connell. The former Dolphins coach would do well returning to that position wearing a different kind of purple in Baltimore.
Mike LaFleur, Rams offensive coordinator (age: 38)
The brother of Packers coach Matt also will be on plenty of lists as one of the latest ace coordinators branching from the Sean McVay coaching tree. His personality and offensive acumen would fit well with Jackson.
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Todd Monken, Ravens offensive coordinator (age: 59)
Tommy Gilligan
Should Harbaugh step down on his own volition or take another job, the Ravens could ust elevate Monken from his offensive play-calling chops to a long-anticipated head-coaching position. This would also make a smooth transition for Jackson.
Jesse Minter, Chargers defensive coordinator (age: 42)
Minter has worked with Jim Harbaugh at both Michigan and in Los Angeles, but before then, he was a Ravens defensive assistant under John Harbaugh from 2017-2020. The protege of both brothers could get his own shot in a top organization.
Klint Kubiak, Seahawks offensive coordinator (age: 38)
Gary Kubiak was a Harbaugh offensive coordinator for the 2024 season, in between his strong coaching stints for the Texans and Broncos, the latter leading to a Super Bowl 50 victory. Gary's son Klint has starred for former Ravens defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald calling plays this season, getting the most of the running game and Sam Darnold. He would be another ideal hire for Jackson.