As is common every offseason for the Baltimore Ravens, plenty of fans want changes on the coaching staff after a disappointing end to the season. And with Baltimore’s exit from the postseason, fans are calling for offensive coordinator Greg Roman’s job. Whether fair or not, coach John Harbaugh isn’t expecting any changes there.
At his end-of-season press conference, Harbaugh was asked about potential changes to the Ravens’ coaching staff, especially defensive coordinator Don Martindale and offensive coordinator Greg Roman. While Harbaugh noted he was disappointed neither received interviews for vacant head coaching opportunities, he also made it clear both would be returning for next season barring them getting hired away suddenly.
Harbaugh said he expects DC Don Martindale and OC Greg Roman back in 2021 unless an interview opportunity opens up soon.
Said he's disappointed they didn't get an opportunity for a head coaching job this offseason.
— Matthew Stevens (@MatthewS_NFL) January 20, 2021
While most have acknowledged the great work Martindale has done with Baltimore’s defense, analysts and fans have taken issue with Roman’s offensive scheme this season, especially the passing offense. But Harbaugh went out of his way to back up his offensive coordinator and even took a few shots at critics like Hall of Fame quarterback Kurt Warner.
While the Ravens did rank last in total passing yards in the regular season, Harbaugh pointed to their efficiency, which was considered to be about average. Harbaugh noted that Baltimore threw the ball significantly less than the rest of the league, leading to the disparity in passing yards. The Ravens ranked last with just 406 pass attempts, 34 less than the next highest team, and 157 pass attempts below the league average.
Like it or not, Harbaugh has a tendency to keep his coaching staff intact, even after disappointing seasons. Marty Mornhinweg, Roman’s predecessor, was in Baltimore for three seasons despite finishing 17th, 27th, and 9th in offensive yards. Marc Trestman was the Ravens’ offensive coordinator for two years, while Cam Cameron stuck around for five years. If Harbaugh’s own statements weren’t enough on the matter, history points to Roman being in Baltimore for a little while longer regardless of the results.
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