MARYLAND (WBFF) — Baltimore Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti and General Manager Eric DeCosta addressed the media following the end of the Ravens’ season and the firing of head coach John Harbaugh, a decision made after the team’s recent loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Bisciotti revealed that discussions about Harbaugh’s future began three to four weeks ago with General Manager Eric DeCosta. “I fell on my instincts,” Bisciotti said, noting that he was certain about the decision following the Steelers game. He added, “I didn’t believe I would feel regret after the decision.”
Bisciotti spoke with quarterback Lamar Jackson on Monday, who expressed no issues with Harbaugh or offensive coordinator Todd Monken but acknowledged that changes might be necessary.
Bisciotti informed Jackson of the decision over the phone, as Harbaugh was driving home at the time. “I never thought I’d fire someone on the phone,” Bisciotti admitted, apologizing for the method.
Despite the abrupt dismissal, Harbaugh was understanding, telling Bisciotti, “You don’t owe me anything.” DeCosta emphasized the team’s commitment to returning to their established standards, stating, “We plan on getting back to the standard we’ve set.”
Looking ahead, Bisciotti expressed a desire for patience with the new head coach, jokingly suggesting, “Maybe I’ll give this guy six,” referring to years to win a Super Bowl. (John Harbaugh won a Super Bowl in his fifth season as Ravens head coach.) He affirmed confidence in the current roster and management, saying, “I think we have a roster that’s capable of it. I think we have a GM that’s capable of making the roster better.”
Lamar Jackson has been invited to participate in the final head coaching interviews, with Bisciotti offering to have Jackson join him for in-person meetings with top candidates. “We’ll find out,” Bisciotti said regarding Jackson’s potential input in the hiring process.
The Ravens plan to interview 15 to 20 candidates, with eight already confirmed for initial Zoom interviews. The process will narrow down to five finalists for in-person interviews. Bisciotti stressed the importance of a thorough selection process, stating, “We will be so confident in this hire” that they can be patient.
Bisciotti also addressed the team’s roster construction challenges, acknowledging underachievement and inconsistency. He expressed a desire to resolve Jackson’s contract situation before free agency in March, aiming to avoid any lingering uncertainties.
As the Ravens embark on this new chapter, Bisciotti remains committed to the team’s success, stating, “We want the Ravens to succeed. If not now, when?”
Despite the difficult decision, he reiterated his respect and affection for Harbaugh, describing their relationship as a “wonderful marriage.”
