Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh is aiming for a college football national championship, but two NFL teams are expressing interest in acquiring him for their coaching positions. Harbaugh, who last coached in the NFL in 2014 with the San Francisco 49ers before moving to Ann Arbor, Michigan, has led the No. 2 Michigan Wolverines to an impressive 12-0 record and their third consecutive appearance in the Big Ten title game. After defeating Ohio State for the third consecutive year, many believe Michigan has a strong chance of securing its first national championship since 1997.
However, rumors linking Harbaugh to the NFL have resurfaced, with two NFC teams reportedly eyeing him. Dianna Russini of The Athletic mentioned on “The Herd” that the Carolina Panthers and the Chicago Bears are interested in Harbaugh. Russini noted that Panthers owner David Tepper and Harbaugh had discussions last year, though it didn’t materialize. The Chicago Bears are also reportedly considering Harbaugh, pending decisions on their coaching staff and quarterback situation.
Harbaugh had a meeting with the Minnesota Vikings last year, describing it as a “one-time thing.” Despite stating last year that it would be his last attempt at securing an NFL head-coaching position, rumors persist.
The Carolina Panthers recently fired Frank Reich after a challenging 1-10 season, with interim head coach Chris Tabor taking over. Reich was dismissed mid-season for the second consecutive year, following a similar situation with the Indianapolis Colts last year.
The Chicago Bears are positioned to have two top-five picks in the upcoming NFL Draft, currently holding the fourth overall pick and the first overall pick from the Panthers. This additional pick was acquired through a trade that involved last year’s No. 1 pick, allowing Carolina to select Bryce Young.
Harbaugh, despite facing challenges, is set to return to the sidelines against Iowa after being prohibited from coaching in Michigan’s last three games due to alleged sign-stealing. He also served a three-game suspension at the start of this season for recruiting violations.
