Jim Harbaugh using NFL interest as leverage against Michigan?

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

Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh continues to take NFL interviews, but there is some speculation that he may have some motivations in doing so that go beyond simply exploring his options.

Some within the NFL believe Harbaugh is using his NFL interest as leverage against Michigan in contract talks, according to Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk. If Harbaugh’s focus is purely financial, it would make sense for him to try to use a team like the Los Angeles Chargers to get the most money out of Michigan.

A return to Michigan may be more likely than thought as a result. So far, only the Chargers and Atlanta Falcons have shown interest in Harbaugh, and the Falcons may view him as a backup option if they fail to land Bill Belichick. If it winds up being between Michigan and the Chargers, he might actually be able to get more money at the college level.

There are other things factoring in here as well, though. Harbaugh’s ultimate goal may be to coach a team to a Super Bowl. Plus, there are some other circumstances at Michigan that will be considerations for him.

The bottom line is that nobody, including his own brother, seems to know what Harbaugh is thinking or which way he is leaning.