Atlanta, Georgia – The Atlanta Falcons have joined the Los Angeles Chargers in interviewing Jim Harbaugh for their head coach vacancy. The Falcons conducted an interview with Harbaugh after recently interviewing Bill Belichick, the team announced on Tuesday.
In addition to Belichick and Harbaugh, the Falcons have also interviewed Mike Macdonald, Brian Callahan, Steve Wilks, Ejiro Evero, and Anthony Weaver.
However, reports suggest that Harbaugh is still in talks with the University of Michigan regarding a potential new contract. He is seeking language that would protect him from firing if the Wolverines’ program faces any findings or sanctions from the ongoing NCAA investigations.
Harbaugh has led the Michigan Wolverines for the past nine seasons, recently winning a national championship. If he were to return to the NFL, the team hiring him would need to pay Michigan a buyout fee of $1.5 million.
Before coaching at Michigan, Harbaugh was the head coach of the San Francisco 49ers from 2011 to 2014. He achieved a stellar regular-season record of 44-19-1 during that time and led the team to the Super Bowl in 2012.
Harbaugh’s potential return to the NFL comes at a time when several coaching positions are open. With his impressive track record, it is likely that there will be significant interest in hiring him.
It remains to be seen if Harbaugh will ultimately make the transition back to the NFL or continue leading the Wolverines. His decision will have significant implications for both the professional and collegiate football worlds.