John Harbaugh pens classy message to Ravens fans after departure as Jaxson Dart lays out HC’s immediate Giants target

John Harbaugh has officially closed a chapter of Baltimore Ravens football.

The 63-year-old head coach took out a full-page spread in The Baltimore Sun to offer his thanks to his home of the last 18 years.

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In a classy message, former Super Bowl winner Harbaugh addressed the city of Baltimore, its fans, and all those involved in the organization weeks on from his shock departure.

What did John Harbaugh say in message to Ravens fans?

“When Ingrid, Alison and I arrived in Baltimore, we knew that we were joining a football organization,” he wrote.

“What we couldn’t have fully known then was that we were becoming part of a city, a culture, and a community that is bonded together by a shared sense of strength and unity.

“From the first time I waled onto the field at The Bank, it was clear this place was different. Ravens football is different… the standard is high, the values are second to none, and the meaning of it all transcends the white lines.

“You see it in the way this city shows up on Sundays, in the way it supports its players, and in the way Ravens fans represent the shield everywhere they go.

“Through the years, we’ve shared unforgettable moments of shared triumph and excellence, along with steadfast determination in the face of trial and adversity.

“We have lived it all together.

“Your unwavering allegiance to support your team and to make your presence felt, always made this team and franchise the best it could be.”

Despite having been fired by owner Steve Bisciotti after the Ravens finished 8-9 and missed out on the NFL playoffs on the final day of the regular season, Harbaugh showed nothing but appreciation for those in the organization.

“To Steve Bisciotti: Thank you for creating an environment rooted in maintaining a standard of excellence,” his message continued.

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“To the players who worked hard, fought, believed and always played with the hearts of lions, THANK YOU.

“Your commitment to one another, to the standard, and to this city is what made our success happen. Coaching you has been one of the greatest privileges and joys of my life.

“To our coaches, your devotion and work ethic were unrivaled. To our front office and all the support staff, your dedication was the foundation of the success.”

Harbaugh’s emotional ad finished with a direct message to Ravens fans.

“Most of all, to the people of Baltimore: Thank you for embracing my family and for allowing us to grow alongside you,” he wrote.

“This city’s grit, resilience and authenticity are unmatched.

“The pride you take in your team reflects the pride you take in one another. That is something truly special.

“Football can be about wins and losses, but what lasts are the relationships, the shared moments, and the bond between a team and its city. Those memories will echo forever.

“With deep respect, gratitude, appreciation and love, Thank you, Baltimore. Thank you, Ravens Flock. John Harbaugh.”

Harbaugh turns his attention to Dart and the Giants

After being fired by the Ravens, Harbaugh didn’t last long on the market.

The New York Giants snapped him up as they enter into a new era of football with a young core, spearheaded by quarterback Jaxson Dart.

Having last coached dual-threat talent Lamar Jackson under center, Harbaugh’s job now is to coach a rising star in Dart.

In his introductory press conference, Harbaugh had glowing things to say about his new signal caller.

“The quarterback is kind of important. That’s kind of a big deal,” he explained.

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“I’m excited about Jaxson Dart. I like the way he plays. I like his talent, skill set, all the things he’s accomplished, but more than that, I like who he is and what he’s about. To me, he’s about football.”

It appears that the feeling is very much mutual.

“When Coach Harbaugh’s name came up, that was the one that we were all really, really excited about and wanted to have,” Dart said on Friday.

“So I think from just our standpoint, the guys just can’t wait to play for him and have the chance to get coached by him.”

Dart then outlined what he is expecting Harbaugh to bring to New York.

“I feel like I just bought into the things that he was saying immediately, and just the way that he carries himself and can conduct himself in front of a room, and his track record is incredible,” the QB continued.

“So immediately the winning culture, the intensity, and then just the enthusiasm and love about football, that’s what he carries and brings to the team.

“So, just can’t wait to get started and get rolling with him.”

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