OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh moved to quell growing speculation regarding his relationship with star quarterback Lamar Jackson on Wednesday, describing their professional and personal rapport as “A-plus” despite a turbulent 2025 campaign.
The veteran coach’s remarks come in response to a wave of reports suggesting a disconnect between the two figureheads of the franchise. Some league insiders and analysts had recently questioned whether a “rift” had developed as the team navigated a season defined by inconsistent play and an injury-riddled start.
“I don’t know where that comes from,” Harbaugh said following the team’s Wednesday practice. “Lamar and I talk every day. We’re on the same page. Our relationship is as strong as it’s ever been—it’s an A-plus. We are both frustrated with losing, but that doesn’t mean we are frustrated with each other.”
The 2025 season has been statistically and emotionally demanding for the Ravens. Following a 1-3 start during which Jackson missed time with an injury, the team has struggled to maintain its usual footing in the AFC North. The frustration was compounded by a Week 13 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals and a recent dip in offensive efficiency that led to public scrutiny from analysts, including Shannon Sharpe and Mike Florio.
Central to the tension is Jackson’s looming financial picture. With a projected cap hit of $74.5 million for the 2026 season, many around the league expect a complex contract restructuring process this offseason. Because Jackson represents himself in negotiations, the intersection of team economics and locker room leadership has become a focal point for media speculation regarding his long-term future in Baltimore.
Despite the outside noise, Harbaugh remained adamant that the focus remains on the current roster and the upcoming Week 17 matchup against the Green Bay Packers. He dismissed claims that he has grown “tired” of his quarterback’s work ethic, a narrative that had gained traction earlier in the week.
“Lamar is the ultimate competitor,” Harbaugh added. “He wants to win more than anyone I’ve ever been around. We’ve won a lot of games together, and we plan on winning a lot more. Any suggestion otherwise is just not based in reality.”
Since drafting Jackson in 2018, the Harbaugh-Jackson duo has led the Ravens to three playoff victories and multiple AFC North titles. However, with the team facing the prospect of missing the postseason or a quick exit, the organization’s ability to manage its internal dynamics will be under intense observation as they head into a pivotal offseason.
