Anthony Weaver Returns To Ravens As Defensive Coordinator

The Baltimore Ravens have made a decisive move to strengthen their coaching staff, officially hiring Anthony Weaver as their new defensive coordinator on February 2, 2026. Weaver, a familiar and well-respected figure in Baltimore, returns to the franchise where he both began his NFL playing career and cut his teeth as a coach. This hire marks a significant step in the Ravens' efforts to rebuild their defensive identity under first-year head coach Jesse Minter, who was himself appointed after the departure of John Harbaugh in January.

Weaver’s return comes after a whirlwind coaching carousel that saw him as a finalist for several head coaching positions this offseason, including the Ravens job that ultimately went to Minter. Weaver also interviewed for vacancies with the Atlanta Falcons, Arizona Cardinals, Buffalo Bills, and Pittsburgh Steelers, even receiving second interviews from multiple organizations. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, "Weaver, 45, returns to Baltimore after being the Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator for the past two seasons."

Though Weaver will carry the defensive coordinator title, Minter has already clarified that he will handle play-calling duties. During his introductory press conference, Minter stated, "I will call the defensive plays for Baltimore," ensuring that while Weaver will have a pivotal leadership role, the strategic vision will be firmly Minter’s. This dynamic sets the stage for a collaborative partnership between two defensive minds, albeit one that has never worked together directly before. Minter previously served as a Ravens defensive assistant from 2017 to 2020, while Weaver’s last stint in Baltimore as a coach began in 2021.

Weaver’s NFL journey is deeply intertwined with Baltimore. Drafted in the second round in 2002, just after the Ravens selected future Hall of Famer Ed Reed, Weaver played four seasons as a defensive end for the team before moving to the Houston Texans, where he finished his playing career in 2008. His coaching career began with the New York Jets in 2012 as an assistant linebackers coach before he returned to Baltimore in 2021 as the defensive line coach and run game coordinator. He was promoted to assistant head coach in 2022 and 2023, working under John Harbaugh, and was widely admired for his leadership and rapport with players.

Weaver’s recent experience as a defensive coordinator is extensive. He first took on the role with the Houston Texans in 2020, followed by two seasons leading the Miami Dolphins’ defense under head coach Mike McDaniel. His tenure in Miami was marked by highs and lows. In 2024, the Dolphins’ defense ranked an impressive fourth in yards allowed and tenth in points allowed, despite having only one Pro Bowl player in cornerback Jalen Ramsey. However, the following year saw a significant drop-off, with Miami finishing 22nd in yards and 24th in points allowed. Weaver’s contract with the Dolphins ended when Mike McDaniel was replaced by Jeff Hafley, opening the door for his return to Baltimore.

Back in Baltimore, Weaver inherits a defense that struggled last season under Zach Orr, finishing 24th in yards allowed and 18th in points allowed—one of the worst performances in the John Harbaugh era. The need for a new approach was underscored by the season-ending neck injury to Nnamdi Madubuike in Week 2, which left the defensive front thin and underperforming. Team officials believe Weaver’s deep knowledge of the Ravens’ personnel, especially those he previously coached, will be invaluable as the team transitions to Minter’s system. As noted in local reports, "Many of the players know Weaver and what they expect from him, which will be a major asset to the Ravens as they transition to Minter's defensive system."

Weaver’s leadership qualities and ability to connect with players have not gone unnoticed. He is widely considered a future NFL head coach, a sentiment echoed by both front office members and players alike. His return is seen as a coup for the Ravens, who are eager to restore their defensive reputation after a rare down year. Weaver’s responsibilities will include leading defensive meetings, assisting with game planning and scouting, and working hands-on with the defensive line—a critical area for improvement given last season’s struggles.

The Ravens’ coaching overhaul does not end with Weaver. Alongside him, the team has announced the hiring of Declan Doyle as offensive coordinator, who joins from the Chicago Bears. Additional staff appointments include Dwayne Ledford as offensive line coach and run game coordinator, Mike Mickens as defensive pass game coordinator, Tyler Santucci as inside linebackers coach, and Charlie Gelman as game management coordinator and defensive assistant. Minter, who previously worked as defensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Chargers under Jim Harbaugh, is assembling a staff that blends experience with fresh perspectives. The only position left to fill is special teams coordinator, after which the Ravens will shift their focus to free agency and the draft.

While Weaver and Minter have not previously worked together, their complementary backgrounds and mutual respect within the organization bode well for a strong partnership. Both bring a deep understanding of the Ravens’ culture and expectations, and Weaver’s insider knowledge of the roster should smooth the transition as new schemes and philosophies are implemented. The front office is optimistic that this new coaching tandem can restore Baltimore’s defensive prowess and return the team to its traditional identity as a hard-nosed, disciplined unit.

As the dust settles on a busy offseason in Baltimore, all eyes are on the new coaching staff to see how quickly they can right the ship. With Anthony Weaver back in the fold and Jesse Minter at the helm, the Ravens are betting on a blend of continuity, innovation, and proven leadership to guide them into a new era. The next steps—finalizing the coaching staff and preparing for free agency and the NFL draft—will be crucial as the Ravens look to bounce back from a disappointing season and reestablish themselves among the league’s elite defenses.

For now, the return of Anthony Weaver signals a renewed commitment to defensive excellence in Baltimore. Fans and players alike are eager to see how this new chapter unfolds, with the hope that familiar faces and fresh ideas can spark a revival of the Ravens’ proud football tradition.