Jim Harbaugh took a potentially large step toward the NFL.
Harbaugh, who is set to coach Michigan in their College Football Playoff semifinal clash against Alabama on Monday, hired influential agent Don Yee to represent him, according to ESPN.
Yee has deep NFL ties and represents Tom Brady and Sean Payton, among others, according to the report.
Rumors have swirled around Harbaugh wanting to return to the NFL since he’s led the Wolverines to three straight playoff appearances.
He was recently offered a gigantic 10-year, $125 million contract extension, according to NFL Network, which would contain a stipulation that he would not entertain any NFL offers for the 2024 season.
During a media availability ahead of Monday’s game, Harbaugh sidestepped questions about his future.
“Such a one-track mind, that’s the way we’ve gone about things,” Harbaugh said. “It’s literally whatever day we’re in, looking to get the most out of it. Dominate the day then we’re gonna go to sleep tonight and wake tomorrow, and see if we can’t dominate that day. It’s a single-minded group and just very focused on taking care of business today and see if we can’t do the same tomorrow.
“…Yeah, just a very one-track mind for this game. Right now, just have fun with the family and the team and the players. We’re at the happiest place on Earth.”
Harbaugh, who coached the 49ers for four seasons and led the team to a Super Bowl appearance, interviewed for the Vikings job in early 2022 and the Broncos job this past January.
Harbaugh was suspended for the final three games of the Wolverines’ regular season this year in the wake of an alleged sign-stealing scheme helmed by ex-staffer Connor Stalions.
He returned to the sideline for Michigan’s Big Ten championship win over Iowa.
Michigan also just received a notice of allegations from the NCAA for alleged recruiting violations during the COVID-19 dead period and not cooperating with investigators.
