Baltimore Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti and general manager Eric DeCosta faced the media Tuesday for the first time since parting ways with longtime head coach John Harbaugh, offering new insight into the reasons behind the shocking decision. Harbaugh, who spent 18 seasons leading the franchise and won a Super Bowl, was dismissed after the Ravens finished 8-9 and missed the playoffs — a rare downturn for a historically consistent team.

Bisciotti described the choice to fire Harbaugh as one of the hardest of his tenure, saying he wrestled with the decision for weeks before ultimately trusting his instincts. He acknowledged speaking with star players, including quarterback Lamar Jackson, before finalizing his plan, though he stressed the move was ultimately his alone.

The owner highlighted troubling trends over recent seasons, including numerous blown fourth-quarter leads and a perception that the team had underperformed in key moments, particularly in the playoffs. Those factors, Bisciotti said, contributed to a direction he felt needed a reset.

Bisciotti also addressed why the news was delivered over the phone — explaining that he had made his decision while Harbaugh was already heading home from the team facility. The owner apologized for the unconventional notification method but said his longtime coach responded graciously.

Despite the difficult circumstances, Bisciotti spoke warmly about his relationship with Harbaugh, calling him a friend and expressing confidence that Harbaugh will be a sought-after candidate for other coaching opportunities across the NFL.

Harbaugh has not yet commented publicly on the press conference or his departure. With the coaching search underway, the Ravens now face a pivotal offseason in reshaping a franchise that once again aims for championship contention.