It was clear after the Brian Daboll experience that the New York Giants were looking for a more seasoned head coach to run this next iteration of the franchise. That’s why names like Mike McCarthy, Kevin Stefanski, and Raheem Morris were being interviewed for the role. Fortunately, the Baltimore Ravens ended up handing Big Blue the perfect candidate when they fired John Harbaugh.
After missing the playoffs in 2025 and some weird energy around Harby and star quarterback Lamar Jackson, Baltimore parted ways with its 18-year-long HC. In total, the 63-year-old finished his tenure in Charm City with an impressive 180-113 record, 12 playoff appearances, and a Super Bowl title.
Despite reports suggesting the split was mutual, there’s a strong belief that Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti was the driving force behind the decision. He told the media he “made the decision by himself,” emphasizing that Harbaugh was relieved of his duties rather than coming to an amicable farewell.
Well, actions have consequences. And now, former Giants defensive tackle superstar Dexter Lawrence will be lining up against Jackson and Co. for the foreseeable future following a blockbuster trade to the Cincinnati Bengals. And if you think Harbs didn’t have a say in the move, you’d be terribly mistaken. If only Biscotti didn't take such a strong stance, huh?
Revenge is a dish best served at 6-foot-4, 340 pounds.
Ravens might regret how things ended with John Harbaugh after Dexter Lawrence trade
What makes this sting more for the Flock is that they were widely perceived as a popular pick to bolster their defensive front. It feels like more media speculation than any concrete trade interest, but it's still pretty savage on Harbaugh's part to green-light a move that sends one of the best interior defenders to his former division rival at the clear detriment of his former team.
That's diabolical.
Harbaugh had significant input on the trade -- this is who he is. He wasn't keeping a player who was clawing to get out, and once the request turned public, the outcome was all but inevitable. He said early on they’d try to work through it, but he’s also been clear that nobody’s untouchable, and that mindset was in full force.
Related: Giants’ next move after Dexter Lawrence trade is staring them in the face
This wasn’t Joe Schoen going rogue or anything like that. This was both of them deciding it wasn’t worth dragging out, and when the Bengals came to them with the 10th overall pick, it was Godfather time -- an offer they couldn’t refuse. Seriously, that's an insane return for Big Dex. Which has to feel even better.
Landing a new gig, moving on from an unhappy player, and getting an unreal return while it comes at the expense of the only team he’s known as a head coach has to feel like the best kind of payback.
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