NFL rumors: New team entered the Jim Harbaugh sweepstakes

Michigan Wolverines coach Jim Harbaugh is entertaining a move back to the NFL. A new team has entered the sweepstakes — the Carolina Panthers.

While many have considered the Denver Broncos as a possible landing spot for Jim Harbaugh, who last coached in the NFL with the San Francisco 49ers, they have company.

The Carolina Panthers are also interested in Harbaugh’s services. David Tepper has been in contact with Harbaugh about the team’s head coach opening.

This does not mean Harbaugh would be the immediate favorite for the Carolina opening, but it does suggest he could get an interview, should he want it.

Harbaugh has entertained some NFL interest of late, and would leave Michigan if given the opportunity. Per The Athletic, “multiple sources close to Jim Harbaugh told The Athletic on Monday they expect he will leave Michigan for the NFL if a franchise offers him a coaching job.”

Much of Harbaugh’s frustration comes from the current college football landscape, and the perceived inequity.

Does Jim Harbaugh make sense for the Panthers?

The Panthers did hire a college coach fairly recently in Baylor’s Matt Rhule. However, Rhule did not work out well, as he was fired this season.

The difference between Harbaugh and Rhule is that the former has NFL success on his resume. Harbaugh made the postseason with the 49ers, including three straight NFC championship game appearances. He has a career 44-19-1 record.

Denver would offer a more immediate path to success for Harbaugh, as they have a solid defense in place, and whatever remains of Russell Wilson after this season.

The Panthers offer a blank slate. Harbaugh can do whatever he wants at the quarterback position — including draft one this year if he wants. That sort of freedom — to build a team in his own image — is rare for a head coach. If anything, it mirrors what he’s done at Michigan, which should bring some level of comfort.