The New York Giants' expected appointment of John Harbaugh as their new head coach is hitting unexpected delays. This situation is creating fresh speculation across the National Football League. While both parties remain confident a deal will eventually be reached, a significant organizational issue is stalling the process behind closed doors.
Reporting Structure Emerges as Key Sticking Point
Multiple reports confirm the delay is not about money or contract length. Instead, the central issue revolves around the reporting structure within the Giants organization. During his long and successful tenure with the Baltimore Ravens, Harbaugh enjoyed a direct reporting line to team owner Steve Bisciotti. This arrangement provided him with substantial autonomy and a clear chain of command.
The Giants traditionally operate under a different model. Their head coach typically reports to the general manager, not directly to ownership. Currently, that general manager is Joe Schoen, who has guided the franchise through a challenging rebuilding period. This fundamental difference in organizational hierarchy is causing the prolonged negotiations.
Why Control Matters to Harbaugh at This Career Stage
After eighteen seasons in Baltimore, Harbaugh is potentially entering the final chapter of his coaching career. At this point, clarity and control hold as much importance as salary. A direct line to ownership would enable him to implement his football vision without confusion or internal power struggles. Harbaugh, known for his detail-oriented approach, reportedly seeks explicit clarity on his reporting lines and decision-making authority within the Giants' setup.
For the Giants organization, agreeing to such a structural change would represent a significant departure from their usual operations. While ownership retains final say on major coaching decisions, day-to-day football operations have historically flowed through the general manager.
Deal Still Moving Forward Despite Delays
Despite the current hold-up, league insiders maintain the deal is progressing positively. NFL insider Adam Schefter reports that talks continue constructively, even though the finish line remains some distance away. There is no indication the Giants are reconsidering their interest in Harbaugh. In fact, many around the league believe New York is willing to demonstrate flexibility given Harbaugh's impressive resume.
His credentials include a Super Bowl championship and consistent playoff success. Once the reporting structure is clearly defined and written into the contract, remaining details are expected to fall into place rapidly. The Giants hope to formally introduce Harbaugh in the coming days, marking the beginning of a new era for the franchise.
For now, the waiting game continues. The delay stems not from financial disagreements, but from a mutual desire to establish the correct power structure from the very first day. Both sides appear committed to getting this fundamental aspect right before moving forward.
