The Los Angeles Chargers have put together an exhaustive search for the team’s next head coach. Jim Harbaugh has reportedly positioned himself as the front-runner.
The Chargers did what many NFL fans expected by firing head coach Brandon Staley during the 2023 regular season. L.A. also parted ways with long-time general manager Tom Telesco in a corresponding move.
Now, after interviewing several potential candidates, Michigan’s Jim Harbaugh has emerged as the favorite to fill the head coaching vacancy.
Fresh off a National Championship-winning season in Ann Arbor, Harbaugh has a prior history of success at the NFL level.
Jim Harbaugh is a proven winner in the NFL
From 2011-2014, Harbaugh guided the San Francisco 49ers to three conference championship games, including a trip to the Super Bowl in 2012, where Jim matched up against the Ravens and his brother, John.
Baltimore went on to win the sibling rivalry. After two more seasons as the head coach for the Niners, Harbaugh and the organization ultimately parted ways following the 2014 campaign.
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He’s been at Michigan ever since, but the stars are aligning for a potential NFL return for Harbaugh.
I’m told discussions with Jim Harbaugh and the #Chargers are now underway as I type this, per source. pic.twitter.com/xdvY2A3kbV
— JosinaAnderson (@JosinaAnderson) January 23, 2024
The Chargers present an intriguing opportunity for Harbaugh
The Chargers already have a bonafide franchise quarterback in Justin Herbert. The roster has a few other promising pieces, such as left tackle Rashawn Slater and All-Pro safety Derwin James.
What L.A. doesn’t have is roster flexibility — at least not this offseason. The Bolts currently sit $40+ million over the salary cap limit. While the front office can void some contracts (or trade them) to create space, it won’t be enough to clear the books entirely.
Still, the NFL is dominated by star signal-callers; it’s never been more apparent than now. At age 25, Herbert is already widely-considered one of the top at his position. Plus, he likely has at least another decade of elite play in him.
That could be enough to pull Harbaugh away from his current comfort in Michigan. Following a college title, Jim may be ready to chase that elusive Super Bowl trophy.