The Baltimore Ravens got their guy. They officially announced former Los Angeles Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter as their next head coach.
Minter has massive shoes to fill in Baltimore. He'll replace the man who gave him his first opportunity in the NFL and one of the winningest coaches in league history, John Harbaugh. So, what better way to usher in a new era of Ravens football than making a splash move?
Baltimore was among the worst teams in the business when it came to getting to the quarterback in 2025. Their front seven left much to be desired in this department. However, Minter could tap into his Chargers connections to reel in a big fish this offseason: outside linebacker Khalil Mack.
Jesse Minter must use Chargers ties to bring Khalil Mack to Ravens
Mack, who turns 35 in February, is set to hit unrestricted free agency in March. He openly mulled retirement last offseason before re-signing with the Chargers on a one-year contract. Hanging up the cleats is still a possibility for the future Hall of Famer, though the competitor in him wants to go out on top.
If Mack wants to contend for a Super Bowl in the late stages of his illustrious career, joining Minter in Baltimore makes sense. The Ravens have arguably the best player in football in two-time MVP quarterback Lamar Jackson. That level of star power at the most important position gives them a chance to contend annually and should appeal to a ring-chasing veteran.
Moreover, the Minter-led Ravens have a need for Mack's services. Baltimore's stop unit ranked bottom five in hurry and pressure rate this season. They also finished in a three-way tie with the Arizona Cardinals and Carolina Panthers for the third-fewest sacks (30).
Enter Mack, one of the greatest pass rushers of all time. The 2016 Defensive Player of the Year may no longer be at the height of his powers but remains a difference-maker. His 83.0 overall Pro Football Focus grade this year ranked 12th out of 115 qualified edge defenders.
Across 12 games in his 12th pro campaign, Mack amassed 32 tackles (six for loss), 11 quarterback hits, 5.5 sacks, four forced fumbles and a safety. For whatever it's worth, he reportedly — and notably — "loved" playing for Minter.