49ers & Jim Harbaugh “Mutually” Part Ways, Free To Sign Anywhere

Update:

The 49ers have officially announced that they have mutually agreed to part ways with HC Jim Harbaugh.

“Jim and I have come to the conclusion that it is in our mutual best interest to move in different directions,” said CEO Jed York. “We thank Jim for bringing a tremendous competitive nature and a great passion for the game to the 49ers. He and his staff restored a winning culture that has been the standard for our franchise throughout its history. Their commitment and hard work resulted in a period of success that should be looked back on proudly by our organization and our fans. We wish Jim and his family all the best.”

“For the last four seasons I have had the great privilege to coach one of the storied franchises in the history of football,” said Harbaugh. “We accomplished many great things together as a team during this period, which is a tribute to the incredible efforts of some of the most dedicated players and coaches in the NFL. I will miss competing alongside this group of players and coaches, I have the utmost respect and admiration for their hard work and support. It has been my honor to share the sideline with these mighty men. I will always appreciate and remember fondly, the passion and support of our Faithful fans, and want to express my particular thanks to them.”

York added: “We are now squarely focused on finding the next head coach of the 49ers and I am very confident in Trent’s ability to lead that process. With the great leaders and talented players we have in our locker room, we are ready to move into the next chapter of our team’s history.”

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ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports that the 49ers have “mutually” parted ways with head coach Jim Harbaugh.

• Pro Football Talk reports that was no firing, no resignation, and no trade.
• PFT adds that Harbaugh is free to go anywhere he wants.

Harbaugh was asked about his future following Sunday’s win over the Cardinals, but he said that the team wanted to release a statement at some point in the near future.

“The organization has a statement they want to release so I’ll defer to that,” Harbaugh said, per AroundTheNFL.

Regarding his tenure with the 49ers Harbaugh said: “It’s been the time of my life, a lot of great memories, a lot of great moments,” per Cam Inman.

As for the topic of him taking the head coaching job at the University of Michigan, Harbaugh said: “Announcements will be made.”

This news comes as no surprise given that it was clear the 49ers were to prepared to move on without Harbaugh since before the season got underway.

Multiple reports have said that Harbaugh will be taking the Michigan, but the Raiders are still expected to try to get involved in the process and possibly lure him to Oakland.

Harbaugh posted a record of 43-20-1 during his time as the 49ers head coach. Harbaugh led San Francisco to two NFC West titles, an NFC Championship game in three consecutive seasons and an appearance in Super Bowl XLVII.