Jim Harbaugh investigation at Michigan: Possible punishments emerge, per reports
Jim Harbaugh is facing an NCAA investigation for alleged violations during the COVID-19 recruiting dead period, according to multiple reports.
The violations include alleged impermissible contact with recruits during the NCAA-mandated dead periods, as well as the use of a defensive analyst for on-field coaching activities, a rules violation. ESPN, Yahoo Sports and The Athletic reported that Harbaugh’s cooperation with NCAA enforcement staff during the investigation is also being examined. Harbaugh could face penalties that include a multi-game suspension. A Level I violation could lead to significant recruiting restrictions or even a suspension for a number of games.
Amid NFL interest reportedly from the Denver Broncos, Carolina Panthers, and possibly the Indianapolis Colts, Harbaugh released a statement on Thursday: “As I stated in December, while no one knows what the future holds, I expect that I will be enthusiastically coaching Michigan in 2023,” Harbaugh said.
The initial violation were minor, as expected. But misleading NCAA investigators can result in a Level I violation. The process to reach a final conclusion is long and slow. https://t.co/XYyvU6DHkP
— John U. Bacon (@Johnubacon) January 6, 2023
Harbaugh, 59, is 74-25 in 8 seasons with the Wolverines with 2 Big Ten championships and appearances in the College Football Playoff each of the past 2 seasons.
I think the only thing holding him to Michigan is the lack of an offer so far. He is losing a ton of players and talent, and he has this little problem to deal with. I think he is gone before the offer is out of the NFL team’s mouth.
He wins with 3 star and 4 star players and has the #1 transfer portal class this coming year. The talent will be just fine and he really losing anyone this past year. If anything, college is all about recruiting and NIL now, NFL there is no recruiting and all players are paid. You just have to win quicker.