As Jim Harbaugh enters contract extension talks with Michigan, he is seeking an unprecedented level of job security that would protect him from being fired for cause. This comes amid reports that Harbaugh plans to interview for the Los Angeles Chargers head coaching job on Monday.
Harbaugh Seeks Immunity from Being Fired for Cause
According to a report, Harbaugh wants assurance in his new Michigan contract that he cannot be fired for cause. This would protect him even if the program commits NCAA violations.
Harbaugh likely wants this protection because Michigan is under investigation for four Level II violations and a potential Level I violation under his watch. If found guilty, Michigan could face significant penalties.
Seeking immunity from termination is an unprecedented request for a college football coach. No other high-profile coach is known to have such strong protections. This reveals how seriously Harbaugh is considering NFL opportunities right now.
Harbaugh Interviews with Chargers Monday
Harbaugh has an interview with the Los Angeles Chargers scheduled for Monday for their vacant head coaching role, according to reports. Harbaugh views this as a prime opportunity to return to the NFL.
The Chargers job appeals to Harbaugh because they have a promising young quarterback in Justin Herbert. Harbaugh has a track record of developing quarterbacks, from Andrew Luck at Stanford to Colin Kaepernick with the 49ers.
Harbaugh may also prefer the LA market for greater exposure. He starred with the Bears in the 1980s when playing in Chicago.
Michigan Promised New Harbaugh Deal Weeks Ago
This drama with Harbaugh’s contract comes despite Michigan athletic director Warde Manuel promising weeks ago that a new contract was in the works.
On January 13, Manuel said: “We’re working through it…it will get done when it’s time.”
Harbaugh has evidently changed his thinking significantly in recent days if he is now demanding immunity from firing alongside pursuing NFL interviews.
Manuel may come to regret not completing an extension sooner when he had more leverage. Now Harbaugh senses bigger opportunities opening up.
What’s Next for Michigan and Harbaugh?
All signs point to things happening quickly, one way or another, in Harbaugh’s future. NFL insider Ian Rapoport tweeted that Harbaugh’s “NFL return could wrap up soon”.
If hired by the Chargers, Harbaugh would return to the league where he reached a Super Bowl with the 49ers.
But if talks break down, Harbaugh could be back at Michigan within days. The odds remain against Harbaugh resigning given his program’s momentum. He seemingly wants to finish the job of winning Michigan’s first national title since 1997.
Here are the possible next Michigan coaches if Harbaugh leaves:
| Candidate | Current Job | Strengths |
|---|---|---|
| Sherrone Moore | Michigan TE Coach | Familiar with program, top recruiter |
| Luke Fickell | Cincinnati Head Coach | Defensive mind, rebuilt Bearcats |
| Matt Campbell | Iowa State Head Coach | Innovative offense, develops talent |
| Sean Lewis | Kent State Head Coach | High-scoring offense, Michigan ties |
Moore and Campbell stand out for their Michigan connections and schematic strengths. But Michigan may have to pay top-tier SEC money of $10 million per year to land a proven winner like Fickell. There would also be competition from top programs for these coaches.
Fan Reaction
Michigan fans have reacted nervously to the uncertainty around Harbaugh. Some support him receiving immunity given the program’s resurgence the past two seasons.
Wolverines fan @UMsuperfan tweeted: “If Harbaugh brought us back from the dead to the College Football Playoff, just give the man what he wants! More years of #2 would be fine with me!”
Others are ready to move on from the rollercoaster Harbaugh years:
@GOBLUEalways vented: “I can’t take another offseason of Harbaugh drama… After 1 great year I’m exhausted with him constantly flirting with other jobs and not fully locked into Michigan.”
Most fans agree the program is larger than one coach and has the resources to thrive long-term. But in the short run, Harbaugh’s decision in coming days will greatly shape next season’s expectations. Michigan needs his inventive offensive mind to maximize quarterback talent.
Stay tuned for the next episode soon in the Jim Harbaugh saga!
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