
The NFL world was stunned when it was announced that the Baltimore Ravens and longtime head coach John Harbaugh had mutually parted ways.
Harbaugh has been one of the most successful coaches in the current NFL, having won Super Bowl XLVII, AP NFL Coach of the Year in 2019, and setting the NFL record for most road playoff wins (8).
"Well, I was hoping for a different kind of message on my last day here, someday, but that day has come today," Harbaugh said in a statement after the announcement. "It comes with disappointment certainly, but more with GRATITUDE & APPRECIATION.
"Gratitude to the owner and organization who was willing to bring in a head coach who made his mark with Special Teams success. A difficult thing to do ... and Appreciation for all the moments, all these years, that are etched into eternity. I hope a legacy built on Faith, always Fighting, always Believing."
Now, social media is flooded with posts from former Ravens players and NFL legends paying tribute to the elder Harbaugh brother.
"Harbaugh is a hell of a man and coach," said former Ravens NFL wide receiver and two-time Super Bowl champion Torrey Smith. "He had a great run in Baltimore. He will EASILY be the top coach in the market.
"Great corporations make tough decisions to move on from qualified leaders when the ultimate goal isn't met. It's just business."
"Greatest Coach in Ravens History," said former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III. "Thank you Coach John Harbaugh for always having your players back.
"I watched you for 3 years never try to change who Lamar Jackson was at his core but instead put people and a support system around him to lead us to back to back AFC North Titles and Lamar’s first of 2 MVPs. You embodied what it means to Play Like a Raven. Once a Raven. Always a Raven."
Other former Ravens kept their tributes much more brief.
"My Coach Harbs #raven #champions #building," Ravens legend and Pro Football Hall of Famer Ed Reed said on X (formerly Twitter)."
Ravens cornerback Marlon Humphrey kept his tribute even more simple: "John Harbaugh. A good man."
"Much love to Harbs," Baltimore defensive end Brent Urban said. "Best head coach I ever had. It was an honor and a privilege."
Now, fans are wondering were John Harbaugh will be heading next, especially since six other teams are in need of a head coach.
No matter where he ends up, Harbaugh has definitively left his mark on the history and legacy of the Baltimore Ravens.