Due to Jim Harbaugh‘s remarks to a reporter about “passing the torch,” there is a growing body of conjecture on social media that he is getting ready to quit the Michigan Wolverines.
The 60-year-old Harbaugh has conducted interviews for head coaching jobs with the Los Angeles Chargers and Atlanta Falcons. Last week, he guided the Wolverines to a victory against Washington in the national championship game.
Jim Harbaugh says he’s “getting ready for next season” and there will be a “passing of the torch” 🫢 pic.twitter.com/b0y1UJEHU3
— Jon Root (@JonnyRoot_) January 19, 2024
In an interview with reporter Jon Root, Harbaugh mentioned that “there’s a passing of the torch” and that he was “getting ready for the next season.” Though Harbaugh didn’t go into further detail, supporters interpreted it as an indication that he might relinquish his coaching position at Michigan in order to pursue a second opportunity in the NFL.
@KingofBoltz bro… it’s happening
— Spencer Russell (@spencer_russ12) January 19, 2024
As someone who desperately wants Harbaugh in LA, this feels like he’s talking about the seniors and captains that are leaving
— Another Lakers Fan (@Justa_LakersFan) January 19, 2024
@TheDirector_YT ⚡⚡⚡
— Robert Perez (@BIG_ROB_22) January 19, 2024
He is a Charger
— Joey Bofa (@Joosef) January 19, 2024
Naturally, Harbaugh’s remark about “passing the torch” may also be a reference to the roster turnover. Roman Wilson, Blake Corum, and J.J. McCarthy, the quarterback, have all announced their intentions to enter the 2024 NFL Draft in April.
Prior to joining the Wolverines in 2015, Harbaugh spent four years as the head coach of the San Francisco 49ers (2011–2014). Under Harbaugh’s direction, San Francisco made it to three consecutive NFC Championship Games and Super Bowl 47.