In yet another headline-grabbing moment blending politics and pro football, President Donald Trump took to Truth Social on January 7, 2026, to deliver what outlets are calling a “major warning” to every one of the NFL’s 32 teams:
“HIRE JOHN HARBAUGH, FAST.” He doubled down by praising the longtime Baltimore Ravens head coach and his brother, adding, “HE AND HIS BROTHER, ARE TOTAL WINNERS!!!”
The fiery post came just days after the stunning news that the Baltimore Ravens had parted ways with John Harbaugh after an impressive 18-year tenure. Harbaugh, who led the team to a Super Bowl victory in 2013 (defeating his brother Jim Harbaugh’s San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl XLVII), is now one of the hottest free-agent coaching candidates on the market.
Why the ‘Warning’ — and Why Now?
Trump, a self-proclaimed lifelong football fan with deep ties to the Mid-Atlantic region (Maryland is right next door to D.C.), wasted no time expressing his disappointment over the Ravens’ decision. Multiple reports indicate that several NFL franchises — including at least two with sitting head coaches — are already considering drastic moves like firing their current staff to pursue Harbaugh.
With seven teams reportedly searching for new head coaches heading into the 2026 offseason (including the Cleveland Browns, New York Giants, Las Vegas Raiders, Tennessee Titans, Atlanta Falcons, and Arizona Cardinals), the competition is fierce.
The President’s all-caps directive frames Harbaugh as a proven “winner” who’s too valuable to let slip away. It’s classic Trump style: bold, direct, and aimed at influencing outcomes in a league where he has longstanding relationships with prominent owners.
Harbaugh himself has shown mutual admiration for Trump in the past. During a 2025 media session, he described a White House visit (along with brother Jim, their parents, and families) as “amazing” and “awesome,” adding that he roots for the President’s success the same way he does for his team and quarterback.
Reactions: Mixed, as Expected
- Supporters see it as Trump boosting a deserving coach and injecting energy into the NFL’s hiring cycle.
- Critics (including some fans on social media) view it as unnecessary presidential meddling in sports, with comments like “The Commander-in-Chief has time for THIS?” surfacing online.
- No official response from the NFL or teams has emerged, but the story has blown up across sports sites, with headlines emphasizing the “warning” to all 32 franchises.
This isn’t Trump’s first foray into NFL commentary — he’s weighed in on everything from halftime shows to team names — but this one feels personal, tied to his proximity to Baltimore and appreciation for Harbaugh’s track record.
Harbaugh’s Next Move?
Harbaugh isn’t rushing interviews this week and plans to evaluate his options carefully. Given his resume (consistent playoffs, Super Bowl ring, strong player relationships), he’s expected to draw serious interest. Will a team pull the trigger on a blockbuster hire? Or will the President’s public push backfire?
One thing’s clear: In the world of 2026 NFL coaching carousels, even the Oval Office is getting involved. Stay tuned — this offseason just got a lot more interesting. What do you think — should teams listen to the Commander-in-Chief on this one?
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