Jim Harbaugh and the Michigan Wolverines are reportedly focused on keeping their head coach as they get ready for their game against Alabama in the College Football Playoff semifinal next month. Harbaugh has been linked to the NFL for the second straight season, and a number of teams may consider looking to replace him in the upcoming offseason.
Richard Johnson of Sports Illustrated claims that the university is negotiating a five-year extension that would pay the seasoned coach up to $11 million annually.
However, it is purported that the agreement would include a clause prohibiting Harbaugh from applying for NFL jobs while it is in effect.
Following the completion of a three-game suspension that the school had imposed at the beginning of the season due to NCAA recruiting violations, Harbaugh was once more facing a three-game suspension at the end of the season as a result of an investigation into a sign-stealing scheme involving Connor Stalions, a former low-level employee.
The Chicago Bears and Carolina Panthers are two of the teams that are being discussed. Another possibility could arise from rumors regarding Bill Belichick’s status with the New England Patriots for the upcoming season.
Prior to Frank Reich taking over for Matt Rhule, who was fired a few weeks into the 2022 season following two losing seasons and a 1-4 record to begin his final season with the team, Harbaugh was reportedly in talks with the Panthers.
