Jim Harbaugh Denies Contract Rescission Amid NCAA Sign-Stealing Probe, NFL Likely Won't Serve as Safe Harbor from Potential Suspension
Michigan Coach Under Investigation for Unauthorized Game Scouting; Contract Extension Rescinded Amidst Rising Controversy, NFL Potentially Unreceptive to Harbaugh Amid Potential NCAA Suspension
- NFL insiders reported that the league is unlikely to act as a safe harbor for Harbaugh if he faces NCAA suspension, suggesting he would likely need to serve some or all of any potential suspension even if returning to the NFL.
- Harbaugh denied allegations of an elaborate sign-stealing scheme by the Michigan football program under his watch. One Michigan staffer, Connor Stalions, has been suspended over these allegations.
- The NCAA's investigation into the sign-stealing allegations is still ongoing, which could potentially lead to major repercussions for Harbaugh, even if he was not directly involved.
- Harbaugh disputed reports that the University of Michigan rescinded a contract extension offer that would have made him the highest-paid coach in the Big Ten. Multiple sources reported differing views on the status of Harbaugh's contract.
- There has been precedent for the NFL enforcing NCAA suspensions, citing examples of Terrelle Pryor and Jim Tressel in 2011. However, any implications for Harbaugh remain speculative.