Jim Harbaugh keeping 'one-track mind' amid NFL rumors ahead of Rose Bowl

As Michigan gets ready for the Rose Bowl against Alabama, the rumors continue to fly about Jim Harbaugh and the NFL. In fact, the Wolverines and Crimson Tide will square off just miles away from a current head coach opening in the league — adding fuel to the fire.

Harbaugh’s name has come up a few times around NFL circles about possible openings. That includes the one in Los Angeles, where the Chargers fired Brandon Staley Dec. 15. Understandably, there were some questions as Harbaugh met with reporters Wednesday.

But, in true Harbaugh fashion, he’s keeping his head to the ground and provided a unique response to all the noise.

“Such a one-track mind,” Harbaugh said after the Rose Bowl welcome parade at Disneyland on Wednesday. “That’s the way we’ve gone about things. Literally, whatever day we’re in, looking to get the most out of it, dominate the day. Then we’ll go to sleep tonight, wake up tomorrow and see if we can’t dominate that day.

“It’s a single-minded group that’s very focused on just taking care of business today and see if we can’t do the same tomorrow.”

Harbaugh has a close connection to the Chargers, playing for the organization from 1999-2000 as he wrapped up his career. He also got his first head coaching opportunity in their backyard when they were in San Diego, where he coached the FCS Toreros from 2004-06.

But again, when asked about playing for the Chargers organization and knowing the Spanos family, Harbaugh maintained his focus is on Monday’s Rose Bowl Game.

“It’s just a very one-track mind about this game,” Harbaugh said. “Right now, just kind of have fun with the family and the team and the players. We’re at the Happiest Place on Earth. We’re gonna enjoy ourselves and then get back to business, see if we can’t dominate the day. We’ve got some good meetings tonight. We’ll wake up tomorrow and practice and see if we can’t dominate that day.

“This is, like, straight out of the Jackie Harbaugh playbook. One day at a time, one play at a time. That’s how we’re approaching each day.”

Jim Harbaugh has flirted with the NFL a few times over the last two years. After the 2021 season, he interviewed for the Minnesota Vikings job that ultimately went to Kevin O’Connell. Then, following the 2022 campaign, he was rumored to be in consideration for the Denver Broncos opening before they hired Sean Payton.

This time around, things are getting interesting at Michigan. The university has a 10-year, $125 million contract offer on the table, NFL Network reported. However, it includes a unique provision — Harbaugh can’t entertain NFL offers this year.