San Francisco, California – Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh has received a lucrative contract offer from the university that would make him one of the highest-paid coaches in college football. The 10-year, $125 million deal includes a stipulation that Harbaugh cannot accept an NFL job for the 2024 season. While Harbaugh is under contract with Michigan until 2026, the offer indicates the school’s commitment to keeping him on board.
Although Harbaugh’s preferred landing spot in the NFL would be the Los Angeles Chargers, sources suggest that the Chargers are considering a number of potential candidates for their head coach position. The presence of promising young quarterback Justin Herbert and the team’s soon-to-open training facility make the Chargers an attractive destination for coaches.
Meanwhile, the Las Vegas Raiders, who fired head coach Josh McDaniels and general manager David Ziegler in October, have shown interest in Harbaugh. Owner Mark Davis has expressed a desire to have a high-profile figure leading the team in Las Vegas. The Raiders currently lack a franchise quarterback but boast a state-of-the-art stadium and training facility.
The Carolina Panthers, another team with a vacant head coach position, are unlikely to pursue Harbaugh according to sources. However, other NFL coaching vacancies, including in Washington, D.C., could arise in the coming weeks.
In previous years, Harbaugh was thought to only consider positions that gave him control over hiring his preferred general manager. However, sources now indicate that he is open to a variety of structures for his next coaching job, acknowledging the changing dynamics of NFL organizations.
It remains uncertain whether Harbaugh will be on the sidelines for the start of the 2024 season, regardless of whether he remains at Michigan or moves to the NFL. Harbaugh recently served a three-game suspension imposed by the school for alleged recruiting violations and non-cooperation with investigators. Additionally, there are ongoing NCAA investigations into the program, including allegations of an elaborate sign-stealing operation. While the NFL may not provide a safe haven for Harbaugh if the NCAA imposes discipline, no rulings have been made by the NCAA at this time.
In conclusion, Michigan has offered Jim Harbaugh a substantial contract to keep him as their head coach. While Harbaugh has expressed interest in coaching in the NFL, it is unclear where he will end up. The Los Angeles Chargers and Las Vegas Raiders are among the potential landing spots, but other vacancies in the NFL could also arise. Harbaugh’s contractual obligations and potential NCAA discipline may also impact his coaching future.