The Minnesota Vikings were looking to make a splash this offseason by hiring Jim Harbaugh to be their next head coach.
That would have meant him leaving Michigan after his most successful season with the program.
The jokes were rampant on social media and Harbaugh met with the Vikings on Wednesday, potentially sealing his fate of an NFL return.
Alas, he is staying put.
Jim Harbaugh called Michigan to inform the school that, despite interviewing with the Vikings today, he will be returning to school for the 2022 season, sources tell ESPN. Michigan was, in the words of one source, “elated” to get Harbaugh’s decision.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) February 3, 2022
ESPN insider Adam Schefter reported that Harbaugh called Michigan directly to say he is returning to the program.
The fact they were left waiting on his decision is a bit of a shock, but that is the world of college football.
The Vikings now have a pressing matter in finding their next head coach after all the pomp and circumstance surrounding Harbaugh.
Vikings Still Seeking A Top HC
Schefter went on to share the other finalists for the open position in Minnesota.
Vikings other known finalists are Rams’ DC Raheem Morris, Rams’ OC Kevin O’Connell and Giants’ DC Patrick Graham.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) February 3, 2022
Los Angeles Rams defensive coordinator Raheem Morris, Rams offensive coordinator Kevin O’Connell, and New York Giants defensive coordinator Patrick Graham are reportedly still in the running.
This could mean the Vikings wait until next Monday at the earliest to hire someone if they are keen on either of the Rams coordinators.
This offseason is unique because of the amount of teams seeking new head coaches.
The added week to the regular season also means it may become commonplace for teams to wait until mid-February to make a final decision.
What we know for sure is that Harbaugh has taken his name out of the running.
That could certainly change in the coming years given he was clearly interested in the idea of leading the Vikings.
Michigan fans can now rest easy after such a successful season that ended with a berth in the College Football Playoff.
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