Jim Harbaugh and the University of Michigan are reportedly working on a massive contract extension, but with a stipulation in the deal.
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According to Sports Illustrated's Richard Johnson, the extension is in the ballpark of $11 million per year for five years. That catch is that Michigan reportedly wants "a commitment in writing from Harbaugh that he will not pursue an NFL job this cycle."
SOURCE: Michigan is working on a contract extension for Jim Harbaugh worth $11M per year/5 years. The main hurdle remaining is a commitment in writing from Harbaugh that he will not pursue an NFL job this cycle.
— Richard🇬🇾Johnson (@RJ_cfb) December 7, 2023
There's been a ton of speculation surrounding Harbaugh and the NFL for years now, something that's only been magnified after the Big Ten suspended Harbaugh for three games this season following an NCAA investigation into a sign-stealing scandal.
According to NFL insider Dianna Russini, at least two NFL teams — the Carolina Panthers and Chicago Bears — are expected to have interest in hiring the ninth-year Michigan head coach. The 59-year-old former Michigan quarterback was drafted by the Bears in the first round of the 1987 NFL Draft and spent seven seasons playing in the Windy City.
Harbaugh's interest in the NFL seemed legitimate in 2022 when he interviewed for the Minnesota Vikings head coaching position. However, it also could've been a move to force Michigan's hand in giving him a new contract. He also called the interview "the last time" he'd chase an NFL job.
Of course, Harbaugh likely still wants to win a national title at his alma mater. He has Michigan sitting No. 1 in this year's College Football Playoff after a disappointing loss to TCU in last season's CFP Semifinals. And a season before that, Harbaugh suffered a loss to Georgia in the semifinals.
Harbaugh has won the last three Big Ten Championships at Michigan and has been a recent staple in the CFP. The only hurdle left to clear is a national title. With this reported new extension, Michigan has all the confidence in the world in him. As long he doesn't bolt for the NFL.
