Jim Harbaugh receives massive contract offer from Michigan, has unique ‘hurdle’ to clear, per report

Jim Harbaugh is reportedly on the verge of a huge contract extension with Michigan, but it won’t be without some hurdles.

According to Sports Illustrated’s Richard Johnson, the extension is reported to be for 5 years at $11 million per year. Johnson adds that Michigan is seeking a written commitment from Harbaugh stating that the Wolverines head coach won’t 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 (human) (@RJ_cfb) December 7, 2023

Harbaugh has worried the Michigan faithful with NFL interest the past 2 offseasons. He interviewed for the Minnesota Vikings opening National Signing Day in February 2022. In January 2023, he virtually interviewed for the Denver Broncos job. Before coming to Michigan, Harbaugh achieved success as the San Francisco 49ers head coach, taking the team to the Super Bowl.

Harbaugh served suspensions in the 2023 season for recruiting violations investigated by the NCAA and sign-stealing allegations. Last month, college football insider Bruce Feldman reported that Harbaugh could face a significant suspension in 2024 if he returns to Michigan.

After missing Michigan’s final 3 games of the 2023 regular season, Harbaugh returned to the sidelines for the Big Ten Championship Game. The No. 1 Wolverines next face Alabama in the College Football Playoff semifinal at the Rose Bowl. Kickoff is set for 5 p.m. ET on New Year’s Day on ESPN.