JUST IN: Jim Harbaugh signs head coaching contract with Los Angeles Chargers for
After years that have felt like lifetimes for the Michigan football faithful, former coach Jim Harbaugh has elected to return to the NFL to be the head coach of the Los Angeles Chargers. Harbaugh, the head coach of the Wolverines for the last nine seasons, signed a contract to join on with a team he once played for.
Once called on to step down after a difficult 2-4 Covid-19 2020 season, Harbaugh’s tenure was a tale of two times. Beginning his career 0-5 against Ohio State, and struggling to match other rival programs at times, the Wolverines first years under Harbaugh were often fraught at best. However, after a defining 2020 season, and a promise to “do it or die trying,” everything changed.
Since the start of 2021, Michigan regained its footing, and now has found itself on top of the college football mountain once more. Going 3-0 against Ohio State, securing three straight Big Ten Championships, three straight CFP Playoff berths, and now, after a Rose Bowl victory and National Championship, the Wolverines are back in business.
It didn’t come without strife though. Under Harbaugh, Michigan saw a litany of scandalous snafus, including 2020 Covid-19 recruiting violations during a dead period, conducting satellite camps that was later banned by the NCAA, and most recently, a sign-stealing allegation centered around staffer Connor Stallions, who was later relieved of his tenure with Michigan Athletics.
Seeking a renewed contract after having his pay slashed by Manuel in 2020, Harbaugh reportedly sought protections from potential NCAA punishment in addition to an increased salary. Nevertheless, despite the program’s first 15-0 season and a 2023 National Championship win, the two sides could not reach a conclusion that kept Harbaugh coaching the Wolverines.
