Jets Planning To Make Run At Hiring Jim Harbaugh?

Update:

The New York Jets released a statement on Monday regarding their reported interest in Michigan HC Jim Harbaugh.

Statement from Christopher Johnson, Chairman and CEO:

“Todd Bowles is our Head Coach. There is no truth to the report of our interest in Jim Harbaugh."

— New York Jets (@nyjets) December 24, 2018

Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk, citing a league source, reports that the Jets are the mystery team planning to make a run at hiring Michigan HC Jim Harbaugh.

According to Florio, the Jets plan to make Harbaugh “a financial offer he can’t refuse” that is in excess of the $7 million per year he’s earning as Michigan’s head coach.

The Jets reportedly starting doing work and digging in on Harbaugh around four weeks ago and plan to interview him for their vacancy once they officially move on from Todd Bowles, which is widely expected to happen after the regular season.

Florio adds that it remains to be seen whether changes will be limited to coaching staff or if GM Mike Maccagnan could also be replaced.

Convincing Harbaugh to return to the NFL could require the Jets to turn over control of their roster.

It’s worth mentioning that Harbaugh has said he has no plans to leave Michigan. However, if the Jets are serious about making him a deal he can’t refuse, it’s at least something to keep in mind over the next few weeks.

Harbaugh, 54, signed a seven-year, $35 million contract with Michigan that includes 10 percent increases after the third and fifth year of his contract and a $2 million signing bonus. He also receives incentive bonuses for Big Ten championships, bowl appearances, coaching awards and team academic performance.

During his four years with the 49ers, he led them to a record of 44-19-1 (69.5 percent), which included three playoff appearances and an NFC Championship.

At Michigan, Harbaugh’s teams have produced a record of 38-13 (74.5 percent).

We’ll have more regarding Harbaugh possibly returning to the NFL as the news is available.