Chargers News: Bolts Target Jim Harbaugh May Have Just Confirmed NFL Return

Jim Harbaugh may have just confirmed his NFL return.

The Los Angeles Chargers are set to hire their next head coach, and their biggest target right now is former NFL and current Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh. 

The rumors of Harbaugh's return gained steam when he hired an agent who represents many NFL players. Despite being asked about his return, Harbaugh has offered plenty of "coach speak" about it. 

He finally began to interview for head coaching gigs, making his return a near-guaranteed thing. Still, Harbaugh could be being sneaky to leverage more many from Michigan who has reportedly been trying to retain his services after he led the team to a national championship. 

Still, the news of Harbaugh and the Chargers has been ongoing, and he may have just let it slip that his return to the NFL is set. 

Jim Harbaugh prepares for the “Passing of the torch” 👀👀 https://t.co/q6lMAxA4Yt

— Armando Salguero (@ArmandoSalguero) January 19, 2024

While speaking at a march in Washington, D.C., Harbaugh was asked about how he felt about his national championship win. Harbaugh explained that it had been incredible but he is now "getting ready for next season, and there's a passing of the torch." 

While Harbaugh saying "passing of the torch" could be viewed as a throwaway line, this is the biggest indication that he could be packing his bags for Southern California. The Chargers have been high on Harbaugh for weeks now, and there are reports that they both view one another as the perfect fit. 

Harbaugh reportedly stated the Chargers are like the 2011 49ers team he took over. He would end his run with the Niners securing a 44-19-1 record. That includes three playoff appearances and a Super Bowl appearance. 

Harbaugh has the right kind of mindset that could help elevate the underachieving and tough Chargers team into a powerhouse within the AFC. 

The Chargers have to abide by the Rooney Rule and interview at least two minority candidates in person before an offer can be given. In-person interviews begin on Monday, so we expect the news of Harbaugh to LA will be confirmed next week. 

Harbaugh may not have intended to confirm his NFL return, but this is as close as its been to him outright stating he will be leaving the college level for the pros again.