Jesse Minter Named Ravens Head Coach In Franchise Shakeup

The Baltimore Ravens have entered a new era, officially announcing Jesse Minter as their fourth head coach in franchise history on January 22, 2026. After 18 seasons of stability and a Super Bowl championship under John Harbaugh, the Ravens made the bold decision to part ways and chart a fresh course with Minter, a defensive-minded leader who brings both familiarity and innovation to Baltimore’s sideline.

Minter, who inked a five-year contract with the Ravens, is no stranger to the organization or the NFL coaching carousel. His journey began as a defensive intern at Notre Dame, followed by stints at Cincinnati, Indiana State, and Georgia State before landing his first NFL job in Baltimore under Harbaugh in 2017. He climbed the ranks to defensive backs coach by 2020 before venturing into college football as defensive coordinator at Vanderbilt and then Michigan, where he helped lead the Wolverines to a national championship in 2023. Most recently, Minter served as the Los Angeles Chargers’ defensive coordinator for the 2024 and 2025 seasons, working alongside Jim Harbaugh, John’s brother.

"I am truly honored to serve as the head coach of the Baltimore Ravens," Minter expressed in the team’s official statement. "This is an organization whose values, culture and tradition of excellence reflect everything I believe about the game of football and how it should be played. My family and I are thrilled to join the Ravens Flock, and we can’t wait to make the fans, the great city of Baltimore and Maryland proud."

Ravens General Manager Eric DeCosta echoed the excitement, stating, "Jesse is a strong leader who possesses a brilliant football mind and a spirit that will resonate with our players and fanbase alike. Jesse comes from a football family, with success at every level of the sport, and we are confident that he is the right coach to lead the Ravens forward."

The decision to move on from John Harbaugh, who led Baltimore to 12 playoff appearances and a memorable Super Bowl XLVII victory over the San Francisco 49ers, sent shockwaves through the NFL. But after a disappointing 8-9 season in 2025—marking the franchise’s first playoff miss since 2021—and a late-season collapse, owner Steve Bisciotti opted for change. The Ravens’ defense, once the team’s calling card, faltered badly, ranking 24th in total defense, 30th in passing defense, 18th in scoring defense, and 30th in sacks. The 30 sacks registered were just three more than the franchise’s all-time low set in 2010. In critical moments, the defense struggled, surrendering 300-plus yard passing games to New England’s Drake Maye, Green Bay’s Malik Willis, and Pittsburgh’s Aaron Rodgers—twice. In the season finale, Rodgers torched Baltimore for 294 yards and a touchdown, sealing the Ravens’ postseason fate.

With the franchise at a crossroads, the Ravens’ coaching search was extensive and deliberate. Top candidates included Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores, who transformed Minnesota’s defense into a top-three unit, and Klint Kubiak, the offensive mastermind behind Seattle’s high-flying attack. Ultimately, Minter’s blend of Baltimore ties, defensive pedigree, and recent success with the Chargers made him the organization’s choice. Under Minter, the Chargers’ defense allowed the fifth fewest yards per game and ninth fewest points per game in 2025, after leading the NFL in fewest points allowed the previous season. His units were disciplined, opportunistic, and adaptable—qualities the Ravens desperately need to restore their defensive identity.

Minter’s hiring marks a homecoming of sorts. Not only did he begin his NFL career in Baltimore, but his father, Rick Minter, is a long-time NFL and college coach who is currently on staff with the Chargers. The younger Minter’s rapid rise through the coaching ranks has been fueled by his ability to connect with players, innovate schematically, and instill a culture of accountability. His success at Michigan, where he coordinated a championship defense, and his seamless transition back to the NFL have only reinforced his reputation as one of football’s brightest minds.

The Ravens’ decision to go with another defensive head coach aligns with their storied tradition—“Play Like a Raven” has long been the mantra in Baltimore. Yet, the team’s recent struggles on that side of the ball have left fans yearning for a return to form. Minter’s challenge will be to revamp a unit that underperformed under Zach Orr, who, despite being a former Raven and having player support, saw his scheme falter. The defense’s inability to generate turnovers (18th in total turnovers, 22nd in turnover differential) and lack of pass rush (30th in sacks) were glaring weaknesses in 2025.

As Minter steps into the spotlight, all eyes will be on his staff selections—especially at offensive coordinator. With two-time MVP Lamar Jackson at quarterback and All-Pro running back Derrick Henry in the backfield, Baltimore boasts a Super Bowl-caliber roster. The right offensive mind could unlock the team’s full potential, allowing the Ravens to complement their explosive offense with a resurgent defense. Young defensive stars like Kyle Hamilton and Malachi Starks provide a strong foundation for Minter’s vision, and the upcoming offseason will be crucial for reinforcing both sides of the ball.

Minter’s hiring also closes the book on one of the NFL’s longest and most successful coaching tenures. John Harbaugh’s legacy in Baltimore is secure—his 18-year run included a Super Bowl ring, multiple playoff runs, and a reputation for stability and excellence. His departure, and subsequent move to the New York Giants, signals a changing of the guard in Baltimore and the AFC North. Now, Minter will face his former mentor twice a year, adding another layer to the storied Ravens-Steelers and Ravens-Browns rivalries.

"Jesse was impressive throughout our incredibly thorough interview process. He clearly understands the values, high expectations and history of the Ravens, and he has a great vision for the future," owner Steve Bisciotti said in a statement. "Jesse’s football acumen is outstanding, and that’s been proven by the impact he’s made throughout his entire coaching career. He is also a leader who will authentically connect with our players and inspire them to championship levels."

With Jesse Minter at the helm, the Baltimore Ravens are banking on a return to defensive dominance and a new chapter of sustained success. The city and its fans are eager to see if this bold move will pay off—and if the Ravens can once again soar to the top of the NFL.