Jim Harbaugh leaving Michigan for NFL job

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 has made his long-awaited decision on his NFL future.

Harbaugh is leaving Michigan to become head coach of the Los Angeles Chargers, according to multiple reports. Harbaugh and the Chargers have already agreed to terms on a contract.

Jim Harbaugh and the #Chargers have now agreed to terms. https://t.co/txcNzC0wUf

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 24, 2024

While not necessarily a huge shock, Harbaugh’s decision will have wide-ranging impacts.

The Chargers get an impact hire in Harbaugh, who has a history of major success at the NFL level, having gone 44-19-1 in four seasons with the San Francisco 49ers. Harbaugh will be tasked with turning the Chargers into Super Bowl contenders. He has a franchise quarterback at his disposal in Justin Herbert.

Other NFL teams had strong interest in Harbaugh as well, but the Chargers did not let him get to any other interviews.

The move comes just weeks after Harbaugh led Michigan to a national championship, though the NFL rumors had been lingering even before that. The Wolverines had made a very strong effort to keep Harbaugh, but the pull of returning to the NFL seems to have won out.

The Wolverines will now have to find a Harbaugh replacement, though Pete Thamel of ESPN reported that Michigan offensive coordinator Sherrone Moore is viewed as the clear favorite for the job.