Jim Harbaugh signs new Michigan contract as Vikings turn to O'Connell
The Vikings snapped up Rams offensive coordinator Kevin O'Connell after interviewing Jim Harbaugh, who will stay at the University of Michigan.
Jim Harbaugh has signed a new five-year contract with the University of Michigan after failing to secure a return to the NFL.
Harbaugh is now committed to Michigan through the 2026 season, despite interviewing with the Minnesota Vikings.
After leading the Wolverines to the 2021 Big Ten Championship, Harbaugh entered the running for the Vikings job.
However, the Vikings instead turned to Los Angeles Rams offensive coordinator Kevin O'Connell – whose appointment was confirmed on Wednesday – and Harbaugh headed back to Michigan.
The school for whom Harbaugh played quarterback in the 1980s remain delighted to have him, though.
Harbaugh: "We are ready to get on the practice field"
And the coach said as new terms were announced on Wednesday: "My enthusiasm for tomorrow, the day after and every day following is as high as ever, and we are ready to get on the practice field and start preparations for the 2022 season."
Harbaugh's only head coaching job in the NFL to date was with the San Francisco 49ers between 2011 and 2014.
The 58-year-old had a 44-19-1 regular season record with the 49ers, reaching the NFC Championship Game in three of his four seasons and advancing in his second year to Super Bowl XLVII, where the team lost to the Baltimore Ravens.