Ravens Appoint Chargers’ Jesse Minter as New Head Coach
The Baltimore Ravens have appointed Jesse Minter as their new head coach, marking a significant shift in leadership for the franchise. Minter, formerly the defensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Chargers, will be the fourth head coach in the team’s 31-year history. His hiring follows a thorough search to fill the void left by John Harbaugh, who was dismissed on January 6, 2026, after a disappointing season.
Jesse Minter: Background and Coaching Experience
At 42 years old, Jesse Minter has proven himself as a formidable coach in the NFL. His coaching career began with the Ravens as a defensive assistant, where he worked under John Harbaugh from 2017 to 2020. During his final year with the team, he served as the defensive backs coach.
Minter boasts extensive experience across various college programs. He held defensive coordinator roles at schools including:
- Indiana State
- Georgia State
- Vanderbilt
- Michigan
Notably, he was part of the Michigan coaching staff that won the national championship in 2023 before entering the NFL under Jim Harbaugh.
Key Insights from Ravens Ownership
Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti expressed confidence in Minter’s capabilities. “Jesse was impressive throughout our incredibly thorough interview process,” he stated. “He understands the values, history, and expectations of the Ravens. His football acumen is outstanding.”
Competitive Search for Head Coach
The Ravens conducted an exhaustive search, holding 16 interviews during the first round alone. Minter’s connection to the organization made him a frontrunner. He quickly became a favored candidate, securing a second interview after meeting with team management at the Under Armour Performance Center.
Other candidates for the position included:
- Anthony Weaver, Miami Dolphins Defensive Coordinator
- Joe Brady, Buffalo Bills Offensive Coordinator
Despite interviewing several candidates, the Ravens moved quickly to prevent further delays in their decision-making process.
Defensive Strategy and Future Challenges
Minter’s appointment aims to restore the Ravens’ defensive prowess, which has waned over recent seasons. While leading the Chargers, Minter’s defense was ranked first in scoring in his initial year. Although the unit fell slightly in performance last season due to injuries, it maintained a top-10 ranking in several categories.
One of the foremost challenges Minter faces is assembling his coaching staff, particularly the offensive coordinator position. Former Washington Commanders assistant Kliff Kingsbury has been speculated as a potential choice. Additionally, establishing a strong rapport with star quarterback Lamar Jackson will be essential for success.
Minter’s Commitment to the Ravens
Expressing his enthusiasm for the role, Minter stated, “I am truly honored to serve as the head coach of the Baltimore Ravens. This organization’s values and culture reflect everything I believe about the game of football.”
With Minter at the helm, the Ravens are positioned for a fresh start, aiming to reconnect with their winning tradition and make a strong impact in the coming seasons.
