Jim Harbaugh contract extension: Details about Michigan’s $125M offer to keep coach away from NFL
During a difficult season that saw him suspended three times while his team marched to a perfect record and berth in the CFP National Championship game against Washington on Monday night, there has been much speculation regarding Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh’s future.
There have been numerous reports that Harbaugh is considering a move to the NFL, but Michigan is making a strong push to keep the coach who helped revitalize the program.
Here’s all you need to know about Harbaugh’s future and contract.
Jim Harbaugh contract offer
Many anticipate Harbaugh making a move to the NFL after the national championship game, but the Wolverines are determined to retain him. Michigan has reportedly extended a 10-year contract worth $125 million to Harbaugh, positioning him among the highest-paid coaches in the sport. Despite his existing contract running through 2026, this offer signals the program’s commitment to keeping him long-term.
A noteworthy aspect of this proposed deal is the inclusion of terms preventing Harbaugh from considering NFL opportunities in the 2024 season. However, it does not restrict him from exploring NFL options in 2025.
In addition to the comprehensive 10-year offer, there’s an additional proposal on the table. According to Rapoport’s report, an alternative deal for a shorter, unspecified duration is being considered, with an annual value of around $11 million.
From @NFLGameDay: #Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh is weighing a “no NFL” clause in his contract extension; Meanwhile, #Jets brass is set to return in 2024. pic.twitter.com/64lCqckBNr
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 24, 2023
Jim Harbaugh NCAA investigation
Michigan slapped a three-game suspension on Harbaugh to begin the season, but the coach might face additional punishment from the NCAA while the Wolverines await the NCAA’s final verdict on the 2020 recruiting breaches.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Harbaugh purportedly met with recruits in an Ann Arbor cheeseburger shop during the dead period.
The NCAA recently sent Michigan a Notice of Allegations, which includes a Level 1 violation for Harbaugh “providing false or inaccurate details to the NCAA,” one of the most serious infractions for a coach.
Highest-paid college football coaches in 2023
Harbaugh is now the NCAA’s 12th highest-paid football coach, with a salary of $8,254,600, a maximum bonus of $3,275,000, $2,200,000 in bonuses paid, and a buyout of $27,236,892.
Here are the highest-paid college football coaches in 2023.
| Name | School | 2023 Salary |
| Nick Saban | Alabama | $11,107,000 |
| Dabo Swinney | Clemson | $10,758,575 |
| Kirby Smart | Georgia | $10,505,600 |
| Ryan Day | Ohio State | $10,196,250 |
| Mel Tucker* | Michigan State | $10,015,350 |
| Brian Kelly | LSU | $9,975,000 |
| Jimbo Fisher | Texas A&M | $9,150,000 |
| Mark Stoops | Kentucky | $9,013,600 |
| Josh Heupel | Tennessee | $9,000,000 |
| Lane Kiffin | Ole Miss | $9,000,000 |
Will Jim Harbaugh go to the NFL?
If Harbaugh does return to the NFL this season, he may face a ban related to any NCAA sanctions imposed on him. The NFL stated earlier this year that it would not serve as a “safe harbor” for Harbaugh, despite the fact that the league is under no obligation to uphold NCAA sanctions.
Potential landing locations for Harbaugh include the Bears, Panthers, and Chargers, however the list of suitors will grow if Harbaugh decides to return to the NFL.