Jim Harbaugh‘s pursuit of a future Hall of Famer didn’t sit well with some of his players. The 49ers attempt to sign Peyton Manning in 2012 (and their subsequent dishonestly with then-quarterback Alex Smith) led to Harbaugh “losing” some of his players, team sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
When Smith specifically asked his former coach about the team’s interest in Manning, Harbaugh was reportedly dishonest about the team’s intent. As the source told Schefter, “that was the first big sign to the players that they couldn’t trust Jim.”
Last week, NFL Network analyst Deion Sanders said that 49ers players “want [Harbaugh] out. They’re not on the same page.” Harbaugh responded, saying “that’s a bunch of crap.”
It’s uncertain who to believe right now, but one thing can be assured… this storyline will not be going away anytime soon.
Let’s check out some more notes pertaining to Harbaugh and potential coaching vacancies…
- Appearing on Fox’s NFL pregame, reporter Jay Glazer said there is “no way” Harbaugh will be back with the 49ers next season (video link via TheBigLead.com).
- ESPN reports that a potential Harbaugh destination could be The University of Kansas (via Twitter of New York Post’s Bart Hubbuch).
- NFL.com’s Ian Rapoport said Harbaugh is a “name to watch” in regards to the Raiders opening (via Twitter).
- Speaking of the Raiders, ProFootballTalk.com’s Mike Florio reports that Mike Holmgren‘s name has quietly been emerging as a contender for the eventual opening (assuming Tony Sparano‘s “interim” tag is sincere). The connection makes plenty of sense; Holmgren and Raiders general manager Reggie McKenzie previously worked together with the Packers. To add additional fuel to the fire, multiple sources tell PFT that Holmgren was actually spotted visiting the Raiders’ facilities earlier this week.