Starting this week, former Ravens head coach John Harbaugh will attack the interview process with a passion unknown to man. The NFL’s reach is unlike anything we’ve seen in years.
Harbaugh has several options for his next stop. He is selective. Depending on what happens in Green Bay and Buffalo (if the Bills lose today), he may end up with more options.
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He has the right to command a very high salary. He has the ability to seek control of the lineup. He has the ability to demand teams let him hire a general manager, even if it means firing their current general manager.
That doesn’t mean everyone will do it. But it only takes one desperate enough guy to give Harbaugh what he wants. If Harbaugh gives a little in one term, he can get a lot more in another.
There’s another potential play for Harbaugh that we’ve discussed PFT live After the Ravens moved on. He could take a year off and work in television, just like Sean Payton did four years ago. That would make Harbaugh the most likely top-tier candidate throughout next season as the hot seat to be the next coach if the current coach is fired.
If Harbaugh decides to wait, the hot spots in 2027 will (probably) be the Jets, Bills (if they don’t make a move this year), Bengals, Colts, Chiefs (if Andy Reid decides to retire), Cowboys, Commanders, Buccaneers, Panthers and Saints.
Regardless, Harbaugh’s search for his next coaching job could begin soon. He can decide to look for a job now or look for a job later.
