The Baltimore Ravens are reportedly closing in on their new defensive coordinator. It’s being reported that Michigan’s Mike Macdonald is expected to be hired as the Ravens’ defensive coordinator in the near future.
While nothing is certain yet, multiple sources are reporting that the Ravens have identified Macdonald as their top target and that a deal is expected to be completed by the end of the week.
Macdonald spent time with the Ravens organization from 2014 to 2020 joining the team as an intern before being elevated to defensive backs coach and later linebackers coach.
The 34-year-old left the NFL to join Jim Harbaugh’s staff at Michigan as the school’s new defensive coordinator following the 2020 season, but after just one year away, it seems as though he’s set to make his return.
Mike Macdonald’s connection with the Ravens made him an obvious candidate
When the Ravens made the shocking decision to move on from now-former defensive coordinator Wink Martindale earlier in the week, many people dubbed Macdonald as one of the likeliest candidates to replace the long-tenured NFL veteran.
Macdonald’s experience working under John Harbaugh and with the Ravens organization made him an obvious candidate so it certainly isn’t surprising to hear that he’s emerged as the top option.
The only other known candidates at this time are Dallas Cowboys defensive backs coach Joe Whitt Jr. and Ravens defensive line coach Anthony Weaver who have both reportedly interviewed (or are set to interview) for the position.
They were also reportedly expected to speak with Jacksonville Jaguars defensive coordinator Joe Cullen (another former Ravens assistant) and Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebackers coach Mike Caldwell.
However, it seems as though the Ravens might have already made their minds up.
The Ravens have long been an organization that prides itself on stability, consistency, and building from within. While Macdonald would technically be an external hire, his extensive recent experience with the franchise continues that trend.
Nothing is official as of yet, but it seems as though the Ravens have found their guy.