5 candidates to replace Jim Harbaugh if he leaves Michigan for the NFL
If Jim Harbaugh is going back to the NFL, where does Michigan turn?
It’s no longer a lock that Michigan football is able to retain the head coach who led them a national championship just a few weeks ago.
As the Wolverines bask in the aftermath of their title run, Jim Harbaugh has reportedly been flirting with a return to the NFL and the Los Angeles Chargers appear to be just as interested. On Tuesday, NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo reported the two sides are in “striking distance” of a deal to bring Harbaugh back to California.
If that happens, Michigan will find itself in a truly tough position as it seeks to replace him.
From The Insiders on #NFLPlus and @nflnetwork: The #Chargers and Jim Harbaugh are now in striking distance of getting a deal done as Harbaugh is in LA today for another meeting with the team. pic.twitter.com/YJhNzRzOcP
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) January 23, 2024
Anyone who takes this potential job would 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 could Michigan turn to if Harbaugh leaves?
Likely one of these five candidates listed in no particular order.