Jim Harbaugh, one NFL team have expressed mutual interest

Jim Harbaugh and at least one NFL team have been on each other’s minds. After leading Michigan to the College Football Playoff, the Wolverines coach could be eyeing a return to the next level.

In an appearance on Sportscenter, ESPN’s Pete Thamel stated that Harbaugh and the Las Vegas Raiders have expressed mutual interest.

“The safest thing we can say about Jim Harbaugh is that he’ll get a new deal this year,” stated Thamel. “Whether that comes from Michigan, or that comes from the NFL. The Raiders is the destination he’d be most likely to go in the NFL. He has a relationship with Mark Davis, he was their quarterback coach in 2002. Jim Harbaugh and Mark Davis are wild cards. They’re two big, polarizing personalities. Whether that bonds them together or makes it more complicated remains to be seen. But there is at least mutual interest, each are peaking at each-other now.

“The Raiders still have to run a process, and they need a GM,” he continued. “So nothing would be imminent with Jim Harbaugh in the upcoming days. But I do think those sides are going to feel each-other out as we go forward.”

In one swoop, Harbaugh can return to the NFL and takeover one of the most interesting situations in the league. Despite multiple controversies, the Raiders found a way to make the playoffs. With Harbaugh, Las Vegas could achieve much more than that.

Thamel: ‘Harbaugh has always kind of kept his eye on the NFL.’

Furthermore, Thamel stated that this isn’t new for Harbaugh. The former San Francisco 49ers coach has always kept an eye on the NFL throughout his time with Michigan.

“Harbaugh has always kind of kept his eye on the NFL as its gone forward,” stated Thamel. “He went – I believe – 40-14-1 as an NFL coach. He currently has the fifth best winning percentage of any NFL coach in history. Higher than Bill Belichick, higher than anyone.

“He was elite as an NFL coach, and he’s certainly always kept an eye on that, and in an openness to listen to different jobs.”

As Thamel mentions, Harbaugh enjoyed a bevy of success during his time with the 49ers. After taking Michigan to new heights, the charismatic coach could be making his return to the NFL — where he has unfinished business.

A return to the NFL would be huge for Jim Harbaugh. Additionally, the ripple effect it would have on the NFL and college football landscapes would be a sight to see.