unexpected: top key man has decided to leave

admin | February 24, 2024 | Uncategorized | No Comments

Jim Harbaugh leaving Michigan football for Los Angeles Chargers

After accomplishing his goals in Ann Arbor, Jim Harbaugh’s tenure is coming to an end.

After leading Michigan football to its first national championship since 1997, Harbaugh, 60, announced that he would not be returning for a tenth season. Instead, he is exploring a return to the NFL in order to further his pursuit of a Super Bowl.

The Wolverines announced on Wednesday night that Harbaugh will be joining the Los Angeles Chargers as head coach.

Michigan sports director Warde Manuel released a statement saying, “I want to thank Jim for everything he has done for our football program, athletic department, and the University of Michigan over the past nine years.” He has put forth great effort every day to raise Michigan’s profile.

“Jim accomplished exactly what he set out to accomplish at Michigan, leading our program to win Big Ten crowns and contend for national titles on a regular basis. This year, the program achieved a record-breaking three straight outright conference titles and the national championship. In addition to graduating his players, he also made a difference off the field by giving them life lessons via team outings, internships, and mentoring.

Jim Harbaugh has a deal to become Los Angeles Chargers' new head coach, per sources | Marca

Harbaugh was also a candidate for the head coaching position with the Atlanta Falcons.

Earlier, Harbaugh told the Free Press that he had signed NFL-affiliated agent Don Yee, who represents Sean Payton and Tom Brady among other notable clients. Yee has been “working hard” on the coach’s behalf, according to Harbaugh

Harbaugh stated, “I don’t even think I have time to talk to him right now,” on January 12, just a few days after Michigan’s national championship victory. Since the beginning of the game, it has been genuinely and seriously working on other people’s futures. I’m excited to sort of prioritize the needs of the boys over mine. I’ve been having fun with it every minute and every second.”

According to reports, he asked Michigan for a contract extension that would “grant him immunity from termination from any finding or sanction” from the two NCAA investigations the school is facing. The goal was to make for-cause firing more difficult.

In a statement released on Wednesday, U-M president Santa Ono stated, “We have been in talks with Jim Harbaugh for the last several weeks and have tried our best to retain him as our football coach.” “Today, Jim gave me a call to inform me that he has decided to give up his NFL dreams and play for the Los Angeles Chargers, leaving Michigan behind.”