Report: New NFL team has interest in Jim Harbaugh

Nov 16, 2019; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Michigan Wolverines head coach Jim Harbaugh reacts during the second half against the Michigan State Spartans at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

Jim Harbaugh is once again said to be drawing interest from NFL teams as the 2023 season nears its finish, and a new potential suitor reportedly wants to enter the mix for the Michigan coach.

The Los Angeles Chargers have interest in Harbaugh, according to Jordan Schultz of Bleacher Report. It is unclear if Harbaugh would be willing to listen, however.

The #Chargers have interest in Michigan HC Jim Harbaugh, per sources.

It’s unclear if the feeling is mutual, as Harbaugh gets set to coach the Wolverines in their third consecutive College Football Playoff appearance.

Discussing right now on the @BleacherReport app. pic.twitter.com/reNtcFbZ9t

— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) December 20, 2023

The Chargers are searching for a new head coach after they fired Brandon Staley. Team owner Dean Spanos is known for his unwillingness to spend big on coaches, and he would obviously have to deviate from that approach if he wanted to attempt to pry Harbaugh away from Michigan.

Harbaugh is facing an uncertain future at Michigan as the NCAA continues to investigate the program’s illegal sign-stealing operation. There has been some speculation that the chances of him returning to the NFL would increase if he is hit with a lengthy suspension. Though, Harbaugh seemed to drop a hint recently that he is planning to remain with the Wolverines.

The 59-year-old Harbaugh has flirted with the idea of an NFL return the last two offseasons. He has been linked to other NFL head coach jobs, but he is currently focused on the College Football Playoff and trying to win a national title.

If Spanos is committed to making a big splash with his next head coach hire, there is another potential candidate the Chargers may also pursue.