Jim Harbaugh is reportedly joining the University of Michigan, with sources close to the San Francisco 49ers coach saying the coach’s departure is a “done deal.”
For weeks, rumors had circulated that the 49ers coach was considering accepting a lucrative coaching deal from his alma mater. Sources close to Harbaugh said he was wavering on whether to take the deal, but on Saturday, it appeared that Harbaugh’s mind was made up.
I just got off the phone with more sources tonight. It’s done. Jim Harbaugh is coming to Michigan – and his friends are flying in Monday.
— John U. Bacon (@Johnubacon) December 28, 2014
Michigan reportedly offered Harbaugh a six-year, $48 million deal. Reports earlier this week indicated that Michigan and the San Francisco 49ers had reached a deal, which many took to mean that the university had agreed to buy out Harbaugh’s contract with the 49ers.
Source says, 49ers and Michigan have worked out a deal. Nothing signed, but UM Officials feel confident Jim Harbaugh will be new coach. — Joe Pequeno (@JoePequenoCBS5) December 27, 2014
The San Francisco 49ers also confirmed earlier this week that the University of Michigan had reached out to the team, but reiterate that Harbaugh remained with the team.
“I think the University of Michigan, in reaching out, did handle it correctly,” General manager Trent Baalke said Monday on 95.7 The Game . “As I look at it, guys, it’s very simple: He’s the head football coach of the San Francisco 49ers.”
Though Jim Harbaugh himself has not confirmed the rumors, one of his players is already saying a public goodbye. San Francisco right tackle Anthony Davis seemed to confirm that Harbaugh is leaving after Sunday’s game.
I just looked Harbaugh in his eyes and thanked him for leading us to some of the best times of our lives. Give Respect when it’s Due.
— Bam Davis (@AnthonyDavis76) December 28, 2014
If the Michigan rumors are true, then Jim Harbaugh would be among the highest-paid coaches in college football, behind Nick Saban’s $7 million a year from Alabama.
