After what looked like maybe his last attempt at the NFL, Jim Harbaugh rumors have been floating as Michigan shines and vacancies become available
Jim Harbaugh interviewed with the Minnesota Vikings last offseason after his most successful run since taking over at the University of Michigan. At one point, it felt like the job was his to lose. But the Vikings ultimately hired Kevin O’Connell. After this episode, it felt like Harbaugh might not return to the NFL.
Another CFP appearance for Michigan
After another successful season with Michigan, Jim Harbaugh rumors have become the talk of the NFL. Michigan completed an undefeated regular season after beating Purdue in the Big Ten championship, a week after stomping preseason favorites, Ohio State in Columbus.
Michigan will face TCU in the Fiesta Bowl (semifinal) on December 31 at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.
NFL rumors for the 2023 season
Multiple coaching positions could become available in the NFL for the 2023 season. Given Jim Harbaugh’s recent college success and previous winning seasons with the 49ers, he’d become a more reliable option for an owner looking for stability in the coaching position.
Harbaugh has already been linked to the Indianapolis Colts, given Jeff Saturday’s interim status with the organization, and their need to find some semblance of consistency in the coming years. Harbaugh would be a great choice given his connections to the city as a player before the Manning era.
Still, it’s been reported by Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero that other teams could be looking at the 58-year-old coach. With teams like the Broncos, Texans, Panthers, and Raiders floundering, the Colts will not likely be the only team looking for a coach.
One issue with Harbaugh, however, is financial. He’s currently signed to a 5-year, $36.7 million contract. NFL teams would likely need to at least match this salary to get him to jump back to the league.
When the Vikings job didn’t work out last season, Harbaugh said that Michigan is where he wanted to coach. But if the right job becomes available in the NFL, don’t be surprised to see Harbaugh coaching on Sundays again.