The Baltimore Ravens sent shockwaves through the coaching carousel two days after the NFL regular season ended by firing longtime head coach John Harbaugh.
Over 18 seasons, Harbaugh posted 13 winning seasons, captured a Super Bowl title following the 2011 season, and compiled a career record of 193-124 (.609).
He immediately became one of the most sought-after candidates on the market, with his agent indicating that Harbaugh is still interested in coaching.
The Harbaughs and Stephen Ross attended Michigan
One of the teams to express early interest was the Miami Dolphins. NFL insider Josina Anderson reported on X on Tuesday that the Dolphins have “expressed an affinity” for Harbaugh.
Dolphins owner Stephen Ross has not publicly committed to head coach Mike McDaniel, but he also has not publicly moved on from him. McDaniel addressed the media Monday and said he remains the Dolphins’ coach until told otherwise.
Still, Harbaugh’s availability has naturally sparked speculation about Miami, particularly given his longstanding connection to Ross.
Ross has reportedly pursued both Jim and John Harbaugh in the past, and all three share ties to the University of Michigan.
Ross, a Michigan alumnus, is believed to be the largest donor in the university’s history, with contributions reportedly exceeding $400 million.
Mike McDaniel believes he is still the head coach
McDaniel said at his season-ending news conference that he and Ross are scheduled to meet in the coming days.
“We are getting together later in the week to discuss what needs to be discussed,” McDaniel said. “We both share the sentiment that we’re not where we want to be, and in this business you have to have a plan and a plan of action to improve that play. I think those discussions are very important and healthy, and I think the fan base is counting on that to occur.”