After a couple of days of waiting for the news to be officially released and the paperwork signed, the New York Giants and John Harbaugh finalized their deal this weekend, making him the next head coach of the franchise. The agreement is expected to be one of the largest coaching contracts in NFL history, reportedly spanning five years and worth approximately $100 million.
Harbaugh becomes the Giants’ fifth head coach, or seventh including interim appointments, since Tom Coughlin resigned in January 2016. His arrival marks a major shift for an organization that has struggled to find stability over the last decade. Former Baltimore Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken is reportedly expected to join Harbaugh’s staff, which would immediately give the Giants a respected and proven offensive voice.
The moment Harbaugh was let go by the Ravens, he became the hottest name of the coaching cycle and one of the most sought-after candidates in recent memory. His résumé speaks for itself. During his 18 seasons in Baltimore, Harbaugh compiled a 180–113 regular-season record and went 13–11 in the postseason, highlighted by a Super Bowl championship. He consistently fielded competitive teams and maintained one of the league’s most respected cultures.
It bodes well for the Giants that Harbaugh could have chosen from any of the league’s nine open head coaching positions, yet he selected New York. Upon accepting the job, he immediately spoke positively about the foundation already in place. With a core that includes Jaxson Dart, Malik Nabers, Skattaboo, Carter, Burns, and Dexter Lawrence, the Giants possess a blend of young talent and established stars.
If Harbaugh can bring his trademark discipline, adaptability, and leadership to Big Blue, the long-awaited turnaround in New York could happen much faster than many expected.