Report: Jim Harbaugh 'torn' between Michigan, NFL
San Francisco 49ers coach Jim Harbaugh is torn between taking the same position at Michigan or remaining in the NFL, according to a report from ESPN's Adam Schefter.
Sources told Schefter that Harbaugh would like to survey the NFL head coaching market before making a decision on Michigan. The Wolverines fired Brady Hoke earlier this month after four seasons, including a 5-7 campaign in 2014.
Harbaugh's family and friends have encouraged him to take over in Ann Arbor, but Harbaugh's "heart is in the NFL," the report says. Harbaugh's father, whom Schefter characterizes as "influential" with Harbaugh, has indicated that he admires interim athletic director Jim Hackett, according to the report.
Michigan has hired a search firm to provide assistance in its coaching search.
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From the report:
But as one Michigan source wondered Friday, "If he wants to stay in the NFL, who will pay him $8 million per year?" -- an indication that the Wolverines are prepared to go hard after Harbaugh.
The NFL Network reported Wednesday that the Wolverines have offered Harbaugh $48 million over six years to become their head coach.
A separate report from Fox Sports said that the $8-million-per-year offer was inaccurate. Bruce Feldman said that the amount of money offered to Harbaugh is "not close" and that no formal offer will be extended prior to the completion of the NFL season.
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Schefter reports that Harbaugh would like to make a decision after season. The 49ers play their final game against the Arizona Cardinals in San Francisco on Dec. 28.
According to the report from Schefter, recruiting is not a concern for Harbaugh, who has an "undisputed emotional connection" with Michigan after playing quarterback there in the 1980s. In addition, Harbaugh's father was an assistant under iconic coach Bo Schembechler.
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Harbaugh, 50, has one year left on his contract with the 49ers but is believed to have a strained relationship with team management. Asked Thursday if he had been contacted by Michigan, Harbaugh said, "As you know, I only talk about the job that I have."
The 49ers (7-7) host the San Diego Chargers on Sunday.
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