3 things John Harbaugh prioritizes in his HC job search

The Baltimore Ravens made a huge change after their season-ending loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 18. Baltimore is looking for a new coach for the first time in 18 years after the firing of John Harbaugh.

The Ravens’ decision shook the coaching carousel in the offseason as Harbaugh immediately attracted interest from a number of teams. But with such high demand for his services, the veteran head coach can afford to be circumspect. The The Giants reportedly want to keep Harbaugh in the buildingg after interviewing him on Wednesday. But does New York meet the coach’s criteria?

ESPN’s Jordan Raanan explained the three main things Harbaugh prioritizes in his work look for a new team“Solid quarterback. OK, the Giants could fill it. The Giants pick fifth overall in this year’s draft. Then you’re talking about cap space and financial flexibility,” Raanan explained to NFL on ESPN. “That means you can add pieces, free agents and really fill out the roster so it can meet what you’re looking for in building a team.”

Teaming up with the right KB is important to John Harbaugh

New York seemingly checks all three boxes for Harbaugh. While Dart missed some time with multiple concussions in 2025, the Giants KB showed promise in a strong rookie campaign. And even though an ill-timed two-game winning streak at the end of the regular season cost New York a top-two pick, the team won the No. 5 pick.

The Giants are also expected to have some financial flexibility for 2026 after addressing the dead cap issues that have plagued the team. And with Dart still on his rookie contract, the team can afford to be aggressive in free agency, adding key players to a talented, young core.

The Giants are considered the favorite to land Harbaugh. But the Falcons and Titans are also in the mix. While New York is one of the more attractive landing spots this cycle, Harbaugh holds all the cards.

“It’s usually the teams that check out the coach,” Raanan pointed out. “But when you have a resume and enough cash, like John Harbaugh has, it’s kind of the other way around.” Despite the Giants’ interest in signing a coach, “from what I understand, John Harbaugh is still likely to take other visits. … The Giants would like to close this out. But (while) the Giants may want to … it’s not (their call),” Raanan added.