In a decisive move following the conclusion of the NFL regular season, the Baltimore Ravens have dismissed head coach John Harbaugh. The decision comes after the team endured a disappointing start, winning just one of their first six games, and ultimately failing to secure a playoff spot with a final record of 8-9. Harbaugh’s departure marks the end of an 18-year tenure with the Ravens, highlighted by a victory in Super Bowl XLVII. Both parties felt it was the right moment for a fresh start.

Despite the split, the Ravens are still obligated to pay Harbaugh a substantial portion of his salary, totaling $34 million. The language surrounding Harbaugh’s exit was carefully crafted by him and his agent. Had the departure been labeled as a resignation, Baltimore might have had the opportunity to recover some of those funds.

Instead, Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti released an official statement indicating that Harbaugh had been “relieved of his duties.” This phrasing categorizes the departure as a firing, thereby entitling Harbaugh to a significant buyout package.

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Harbaugh exits as the most successful coach in Ravens history, boasting an impressive record of 180-113. Since assuming the head coaching role in 2008, his first at the professional level, Harbaugh guided the team to 12 playoff appearances, six division titles in the AFC North, four conference championship games, and the memorable Super Bowl triumph in the 2012 season.

During that championship run, Joe Flacco was the quarterback, who has subsequently had stints with two of Baltimore’s division rivals, the Cleveland Browns and Cincinnati Bengals.

Harbaugh’s contract, which was extended in March 2025 to run through the 2028 season, included an average annual salary of approximately $11.33 million. As a result, he will continue to receive over $944,000 per month for the next three years.

The good news for the Ravens is that they likely won’t have to pay the entire amount to Harbaugh. If he winds up getting another head coaching job in the league, that will offset some of what Baltimore owes (though not all of it).

Harbaugh finding a new gig seems highly likely. Early reports said seven different teams were inquiring about the newly available coach—that’s nearly a quarter of the league.

As a result, Harbaugh could potentially be inking a new deal in the coming weeks. Although taking a year or two off wouldn’t be the worst idea. It’s not like he’ll be hurting for cash.