Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh has his first NFL interview of the current hiring cycle lined up.
Harbaugh will meet with the Los Angeles Chargers next week, according to Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero of NFL Network. Harbaugh is still expected to garner interest from other teams as well.
From @NFLGameDay: The Jim Harbaugh sweepstakes are heating up, as he's set to meet with the #Chargers. Meanwhile, Maxx Crosby could request a trade if the #Raiders don't hire Antonio Pierce. pic.twitter.com/J3X80cumW8
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 13, 2024
Rapoport noted that the Chargers also have a vacancy at general manager. While Harbaugh would not necessarily be given the power to fill that role, the organization would make sure there is “synergy” between Harbaugh and the new GM if they did opt to hire Harbaugh as head coach.
There is a strong argument that the Chargers are the best available job of the cycle, owing to a solid core of talent and a franchise quarterback in Justin Herbert. Oddsmakers have named Harbaugh as a relatively solid favorite to land the job, perhaps assuming that it would take the best job available to lure him away from Michigan.
Harbaugh is fresh off a national title with the Wolverines, but he has entertained NFL interest for two straight offseasons before this one. He may see this as the ideal time to return to the NFL, and the Chargers may be the ideal landing spot.
