Michigan advanced to the national championship game after beating Alabama Monday at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, Calif. Many observers immediately wondered if the upcoming title game could be head coach Jim Harbaugh’s last for the maize and blue.
Harbaugh was asked about his future in Ann Arbor after his team’s 27-20 overtime win. The 60-year-old coach kept things cryptic with a safe non-answer.
“My future consists of a happy flight back to Ann Arbor, Michigan,” said Harbaugh.
Jim Harbaugh is asked if the national title game might be his last at Michigan.
Harbaugh: “My future consists of a happy flight back to ANN ARBOR MICHIGAN.”
— Andy Staples (@Andy_Staples) January 2, 2024
The “belief” is reportedly that Harbaugh doesn’t plan to address his NFL prospects until the conclusion of the College Football Playoff.
The belief is Jim Harbaugh would not address any NFL job interest until after the College Football Playoff. The wait continues as Michigan moves onto the championship game.
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) January 2, 2024
Harbaugh’s personally set moratorium isn’t surprising in the least. Any acknowledgment of his potential interest in an NFL job would likely take the spotlight away from the team’s success on the field. It could also serve as a distraction for Harbaugh’s players heading one of the biggest games in program history.
A report Sunday stated that Harbaugh was offered eye-popping terms on a new contract to remain the head coach of Michigan. However, the deal reportedly includes a clause that would hinder Harbaugh from a potential move to the NFL any time soon.
Questions abound on what Harbaugh ultimately plans to do. But the Michigan head coach seems to believe it’s a problem worth shelving for at least another week.
