Despite garnering interest for head-coaching vacancies, Ravens offensive coordinator Gary Kubiak has decided to stay with the team.
“It is flattering and humbling to be invited to interview for a number of NFL head coaching positions, and I greatly appreciate these opportunities,” Kubiak said in a statement released on the team’s website. “But I have decided to stay with the Ravens. This is a special organization and we, like [head] coach [John] Harbaugh says, are building something great. I want to be a part of that and contribute in whatever ways I can.”
Kubiak attracted interest from the New York Jets and Chicago Bears, who are still searching for head coaches. But he will not interview for the openings, which is good news for the Ravens, who are seeking stability for quarterback Joe Flacco and an offense that ranked among the best in franchise history.
In Kubiak’s first season as offensive coordinator, which ended in Saturday’s 35-31 AFC divisional round loss to the New England Patriots, the Ravens set single-season franchise records with 409 points and 5,838 yards.
The Ravens were eighth in the NFL in points per game (25.6) and 12th in yards per game (364.9) during the regular season, and they scored 61 points in two playoff games. Kubiak also helped turn around a running game that had the fewest yards in franchise history the season before he arrived.
“Kubs did a great job,” Ravens wide receiver Torrey Smith said. “He was a blessing for us this season. It was awesome playing for him, and we’re glad he was here.”
Before joining Harbaugh’s staff, Kubiak was the head coach of the Houston Texans for eight seasons, compiling a 61-64 record and leading them to two AFC South titles.
He hasn’t ruled out becoming a head coach again, but Kubiak made it clear all season that he was enjoying being the offensive coordinator for the Ravens and working with Flacco. His decision Sunday reinforces that.
If Kubiak had left, the Ravens would have been looking for their fourth offensive coordinator in as many years.
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