Joel Klatt makes bold prediction on success of Jim Harbaugh in NFL

Earlier this week, The Athletic and FOX Sports’ Bruce Feldman reported Jim Harbaugh’s potential interest in returning to go back to the NFL. FOX analyst Joel Klatt has quite a prediction if it happens.

Speaking on “The Herd with Colin Cowherd,” Klatt wouldn’t be worried if Harbaugh went back to the NFL. Either way, he argued the current Michigan coach will have success.

“Regardless, someone is getting a great coach,” Klatt said. “Obviously, Michigan knows that [with] what he’s been able to do. If he leaves, he will succeed. Mark my words. He will succeed. He has succeeded everywhere that he’s been immediately. San Diego, Stanford, San Francisco and Michigan. Immediately succeeded.

“So if he does jump, watch out because wherever he goes, they’ll probably start winning right away.”

Feldman listed the Las Vegas Raiders as a potential landing spot if Harbaugh takes the leap, and the Chicago Bears have also come up. Harbaugh has ties to both teams; he got his coaching start with the Raiders in 2002 and played for the Bears from 1987-93.

Paul Finebaum goes in on Jim Harbaugh-NFL rumors, gives career advice

Paul Finebaum has been one of Jim Harbaugh’s biggest critics since Harbaugh became Michigan’s head coach. But with the rumors surrounding Harbaugh possibly returning to the NFL next season, Finebaum has actually supported a potential leap back to the pros.

Bruce Feldman reported earlier in the week that Harbaugh “might be tempted” to leave Michigan for the NFL should the right opportunity arise. With those rumors sparking conversations about Harbaugh’s future, Finebaum believes that his best move is actually to return to the NFL.

“I don’t even think it’s a close call,” Finebaum said when asked if Harbaugh should take the leap back to the NFL. “A year ago he got called in and his salary was cut in half. And he proved everyone wrong. But the problem is still going to be the same for Jim Harbaugh: he has to deal with Ryan Day and Ohio State. And while they won this year, I don’t think he can make a living depending on that.

“He was a very good NFL coach, let’s not forget Jim Harbaugh took the 49ers to two straight NFC championship games. He went to the Super Bowl losing to his brother. And I think he can do it again. I think he’s a better NFL coach than he is in college. And, Jim, if you’re listening: take a job, get out of (Michigan). Whether it’s the Raiders, the Bears, or someone else, I think it’s time for you to go back to the NFL where you belong.”