John Harbaugh agreed to the five-year contract the New York Giants offered him earlier this week, the franchise announced Saturday. Sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter that the deal would cover $20 million per season.
Earlier Saturday, Harbaugh spoke with Schefter, telling ESPN of his decision: “It’s the New York Giants. I’m proud and honored to be the head coach of this historic franchise, and especially excited to work with the Mara and Tisch families. But most importantly, I can’t wait to get started with the great players on this football team to see what we can accomplish together.”
Harbaugh, 63, spent the last 18 seasons as coach of the Baltimore Ravens, going 180-113 and one Super Bowl victory before being fired last week after missing the playoffs.
“We are proud to name John Harbaugh as the next head coach of the New York Giants,” team president John Mara said in a press release Saturday evening announcing the contract. “(General manager) Joe Schoen presented us with an exceptional group of candidates, which allowed us to be deliberate and confident in this decision.
“Through many conversations, John has consistently stood out for his conviction and vision to lead a winning organization, and we welcome him and his family to the Giants.”
The Giants have gone just 7-27 over the past two seasons and could benefit from a proven, winning coach. Harbaugh succeeds Brian Daboll, who was fired in November. Mike Kafka served as interim coach for the Giants’ final seven games.
Harbaugh interviewed with the Atlanta Falcons on Monday and was tentatively planning to meet with the Tennessee Titans on Thursday, but New York was the first team to have him on site for an interview. He arrived Wednesday morning and stayed until early evening before returning to his Baltimore-area home aboard Giants owner Steve Tisch’s private jet. It was all part of a full-court push by the Giants to find who they think is the best available, most established candidate.
“John is a proven winner whose teams are disciplined, resilient and prepared,” Giants President Steve Tisch said in the release. “His passion for the game, ability to connect with players and experience leading at the highest level made him an ideal fit for us, and we are excited to move forward together.”
The Giants had cast a wide net in their coaching search before it reached its end. They interviewed Kafka, Mike McCarthy, Raheem Morris, Kevin Stefanski and Antonio Pierce in person, sources told ESPN. They spoke virtually with Indianapolis Colts defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph and Denver assistant head coach/special teams coordinator Darren Rizzi.
Source | domain www.espn.com
