Former 49ers coach Jim Harbaugh speaks briefly on his future, mentions return to Michigan
Jan 5, 2023, 1:55 PM
GLENDALE, ARIZONA - DECEMBER 31: Head coach Jim Harbaugh of the Michigan Wolverines is seen on the sideline during the second half against the TCU Horned Frogs in the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl at State Farm Stadium on December 31, 2022 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
(Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
Another day, another twist in the Jim Harbaugh coaching saga.
The Denver Broncos have reportedly spoken to the University of Michigan head coach about becoming their next man in charge. As have the Carolina Panthers, as the desire for Harbaugh’s services apparently heats up. And although The Athletic reported Harbaugh would leave Ann Arbor for an NFL opportunity, a new report says not so fast.
After Harbaugh spoke with Panthers owner David Tepper, the Queen City News managed to land a brief interview with the former San Francisco 49ers head coach. He apparently only offered them one sentence, but it’s an interesting one.
“Although no one knows the future, I think I will be coaching Michigan next year,” Harbaugh told the outlet.
There are a couple of ways to look at this. On one hand, it could just be leverage. Perhaps Harbaugh wants NFL teams to assume he’s staying in the college ranks, unless he’s wowed by a massive financial offer. That would be a smart thing to do, as the Panthers and Broncos have the two richest owners in the league.
On the other hand, Harbaugh might truly want to return to his alma mater. He’s been wildly successful the last two seasons, but has come up short in the College Football Playoff semifinals twice in a row. Harbaugh has unfinished business with the Wolverines, and that’s winning a national title.
No NFL team has formally interviewed Harbaugh yet, but you can sense that’s coming. That is, if he’s even willing to sit down and discuss a job.
Perhaps he’s telling the Queen City News the truth about likely coaching Michigan in 2023.
This story was first published by Sactown Sports‘ sister station, Denver Sports. Follow Will Petersen on Twitter @PetersenWill.
