We learned yesterday that 49ers coach Jim Harbaugh was seriously considering Michigan’s job offer, with his family pushing him to take the college gig. However, reports suggest that Harbaugh wants to stay in the NFL, or at least explore the options that will open up following the season.
Of course, the Harbaugh rumblings have continued as everyone awaits the head coach’s decision. Let’s check out some of the notable whispers…
- As Harbaugh debates whether he wants to accept the job at Michigan or stay in the NFL, the Wolverines are anxiously awaiting the decision. According to Mike Florio of ProFootballTalk.com, the head coach is likely waiting to see which NFL opportunities open up. Meanwhile, Michigan would like to fill their head coaching vacancy before the top candidates sign elsewhere.
- Jason La Canfora of CBS Sports opines that Harbaugh will stay in the NFL, and he points to the Raiders as the likeliest landing spot (via Twitter). The writer adds that Harbaugh is “10,000 percent” leaving the 49ers.
- ESPN.com’s Bill Williamson writes that Harbaugh will surely be allowed to bring his own general manager if he signs with the Raiders. Williamson suggests Eagles Vice President of Player Personnel Tom Gamble and Patriots coaching assistant Michael Lombardi as a fit.
- Matt Maiocco of CSNBayArea.com believes the top candidate from outside the 49ers organization to replace Harbaugh would be Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels. The writer notes that McDaniels turned down a chance to interview with San Francisco in 2011 (via Twitter).
- ESPN’s Chris Mortensen also suggests McDaniels, and he mentions another candidate to replace Harbaugh: Broncos offensive coordinator Adam Gase (via Florio).