Jim Harbaugh’s time at Michigan has reportedly reached its end.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported on Wednesday night that the coach is headed back to the NFL to join the Los Angeles Chargers.
It’s not the most stunning development as rumors of Harbaugh returning to the NFL have persisted for year. While the Wolverines basked in the aftermath of their title run, Harbaugh was reportedly flirting with a few teams and the Los Angeles Chargers appear to be just as interested. On Tuesday, NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo reported the two sides were in “striking distance” of a deal to bring Harbaugh back to California.
Now Michigan finds itself in a truly tough position as it seeks to replace him.
Breaking: Jim Harbaugh is leaving Michigan to accept the head coaching job with the Los Angeles Chargers, sources tell ESPN.
The Chargers get their man while the national champions now have a head-coach opening. pic.twitter.com/e937qd03hP
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 24, 2024
Anyone who takes this job will not only be following the footsteps of the man who brought Michigan its first championship since 1997, but also doing so amid an NCAA investigation into the team’s sign-stealing scandal. More problematic is the timing of the opening.
The coaching carousel has pretty much ground to a halt after the fallout from Nick Saban retiring. So who can Michigan turn to now?
Likely one of these five candidates listed in no particular order.