Chargers News: Jim Harbaugh Headed to LA After Michigan Didn't Budge On This Contract Issue

Harbaugh to Los Angeles almost didn't happen.

The University of Michigan allegedly had ample opportunities to keep Jim Harbaugh in town. But once they finally met the asking price for Harbaugh, it was already too late.

"After months of Michigan rejecting the contract terms his lawyers proposed in late 2023, a source with knowledge of the negotiations told The Detroit News that Michigan finally agreed to Harbaugh's proposal on Wednesday afternoon when Harbaugh was already in the final stage of discussions with the Chargers."

Per Angelique S. Chengelis of The Detroit News

Harbaugh and his team had been asking Michigan for language in any potential contract giving him projection from any sanctions being handed down from the school's sign-stealing scandal. The university budged, but Harbaugh was already too far deep into discussions to become the head coach of the Los Angeles Chargers.

"His lawyers wanted contract language that would protect Harbaugh. Michigan finally "caved" on the major issue that had hung up the deal for months, the source said — that Harbaugh could not be fired for any Level I or II sanctions he might face based on the alleged misconduct..."

Per Angelique S. Chengelis of The Detroit News

The phrase "you snooze you lose" comes to mind here, and now Harbaugh is off to Los Angeles. He is returning to the NFL for the first time since 2014 and instantly makes the Chargers one of the more intriguing teams in the league.

Harbaugh had been talked about in NFL circles over the last few years, but now it finally came to fruition. It took the right place for him to make the move, and the Chargers couldn't be happier. 

The veteran coach will now lead the way with star quarterback Justin Herbert at his disposal. The organization believes that this hire will be the one to help lead them to their first-ever Super Bowl title.