Steve Bisciotti summarized his heartbreaking decision to part with John Harbaugh at the end of an enthralling and revealing media conference.

Bisciotti: “I hope you respect enough me to understand that my instincts were telling me this was the right time.” “I might be right or wrong, but it’s my decision to make.

“We love John as a brother and it was the hardest decision we ever made. We made it. The big picture. We want to see the Ravens succeed. It felt like the right time to change. “If not now, then when?”

Bisciotti added much more. He and General Manager Eric DeCosta answered questions honestly and with emotion during an hour-long media session. Bisciotti was the dominant voice in the room. He answered questions with humor and honesty.

continues to search for Harbaugh’s successor. Harbaugh coached the Ravens for eighteen seasons. Bisciotti is his friend for life. Their friendship has stood the test. They shared joys and sorrows, wins and losses and lasting memories.

It would be painful if their professional relationship ended before they were both ready. This moment occurred on Jan. 6 when Bisciotti called Harbaugh and informed him of his dismissal.

Bisciotti stated, “I would never have thought of firing someone by phone.” “But in reality, I was at home when I made the decision on Tuesday (Jan. 6) and he was driving to his house. I thought that it would be rude to tell him, “Hey Coach, come meet me in the office an hour later.”

As usual, the conversation was emotional but they were able to come to a mutual understanding.

Bisciotti stated, “I was the person who was choked up and he was consoling.”

Two days later, they spoke more in depth and parted on good terms.

Bisciotti stated, “When I spoke to him [last] Thursday he gave me advice about the Ravens and I gave him advice about these openings.” “We’re friends for life.”