For the Las Vegas Raiders, the idea of pursuing John Harbaugh as their next head coach is compelling on every level. He brings a Super Bowl pedigree, long-term stability, and the type of leadership that can instantly reset a franchise culture. For an organization searching for direction and credibility, Harbaugh could represent a home-run hire.
However, that vision may already be a long shot.
Raiders’ Potential Interest in John Harbaugh Faces Immediate Competition
The Miami Dolphins’ surprising decision to fire head coach Mike McDaniel has significantly complicated any potential Raiders pursuit of Harbaugh.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Harbaugh is now looming as a “key candidate” for Miami, largely due to owner Stephen Ross’ ties to the Harbaugh family. Rapoport even noted that Harbaugh’s availability could be viewed as “a reason to fire a coach,” underscoring how serious Miami’s interest may be.
For the Raiders, this is problematic timing. Las Vegas would likely need to sell Harbaugh on a long-term rebuild, roster flexibility, and the opportunity to reshape the organization. Miami, on the other hand, can offer an already talented roster, recent playoff appearances, and ownership connections that give them an edge in the bidding war.
Dolphins’ Coaching Reset Signals Trouble for Las Vegas
GettyHead coach Mike McDaniel of the Miami Dolphins looks on prior to a game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Hard Rock Stadium on December 28, 2025 in Miami Gardens, Florida.
While Dolphins leadership has pushed back on the idea that McDaniel’s firing was directly tied to Harbaugh, the surrounding context still presents bad news for the Raiders.
ESPN’s Jeff Darlington reported that the Dolphins have not yet contacted Harbaugh or his camp and that the decision to move on from McDaniel was independent of Harbaugh’s availability. Still, the Dolphins plan to conduct their head coaching search only after hiring a new general manager.
One of the finalists for the Dolphins’ general manager position, Los Angeles Chargers assistant GM Chad Alexander, was with the Baltimore Ravens from 1999 to 2019 and has a close relationship with Harbaugh, further fueling speculation that Miami could be positioning itself strategically.
Well, if Harbaugh likely isn’t an option for the Raiders anymore, what about McDaniel?
The Athletic’s Ted Nguyen was recently asked this question, and here’s his response:
“I’m torn on McDaniel as HC. 1 of the leagues premier schemers and got the most out of his offensive players and that made up for a lot but his inability to beat good teams was concerning but that could be a Tua issue as well. I just know I’d give him a blank check to be an OC.”
Ultimately, if the Raiders are serious about making a run for Harbaugh, they need to act decisively and aggressively, or potentially risk watching a top target slip away.
Raiders Get Bad John Harbaugh News After Dolphins Decision