Report: Jim Harbaugh plans to accept NFL coaching job

Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh’s interview for the Minnesota Vikings job on Wednesday is a formality, per On3’s Chris Balas. Sources indicate Harbaugh is reportedly planning to sign a deal to become the newest coach of the Vikings, leaving behind the Wolverines and his alma mater.

Jim Harbaugh to accept Vikings coaching job

As reported by On3’s Chris Balas, sources have told TheWolverine.com that Harbaugh has said “goodbyes” and “thank yous” to several people as of Monday. While he has not yet officially addressed the Wolverines team, the belief is that his mind is already made up about leaving the program.

“Everyone is wondering if they’ll have a job much longer,” a source in the building said, via Balas. “The team will be notified of everything on Thursday.”

Before his decision is final, Harbaugh has continued with his recruiting and creating the team’s spring schedule. Additionally, there is a belief that some members of Harbaugh’s coaching staff will join him in Minnesota.

Additionally, Balas revealed that sources had confirmed Carolina Panthers coach Matt Rhule is on the wish list of candidates to replace Harbaugh. Michigan athletic director Warde Manuel likes Rhule if they proceed with an external hire, as Rhule has an excellent college coaching record. Rhule recorded a pair of ten-win seasons with Temple, and led Baylor to an 11-win season in his third year with the team.

If Michigan decides to hire their next coach internally, Balas detailed that sources believe running backs coach Mike Hart is the choice they will look to promote. Hart was an associate head coach at Indiana prior to joining the Wolverines.

Harbaugh’s interview with the Vikings drew criticism due to the timing, as their Wednesday interview would take place during National Signing Day. Reportedly, conversations between Harbaugh and the Vikings went well initially and led to the Vikings requesting a formal interview.

Michigan found great success last season under Harbaugh, defeating Ohio State, winning the Big Ten title and earning a spot in the College Football Playoff. However, there was talk around the program that his job security was in question before the 2021 season. Harbaugh had his base salary cut by the Wolverines, from $8 million to $4 million as he signed a four-year extension.