Former Michigan football coach Jim Harbaugh has been hit with a four-year show-cause order by the NCAA for impermissible contact with recruits and players during the COVID-19 restricted period. The organization found Harbaugh guilty of unethical conduct and failing to promote an atmosphere of compliance. Despite the sanctions, Michigan plans to welcome Harbaugh back as an honorary captain for the team’s home opener later this month.
Harbaugh, who led Michigan to a national championship before taking over as head coach of the Los Angeles Chargers, will be barred from coaching at the college level for the next few years. The Wolverines’ athletic director expressed excitement about having Harbaugh back in Ann Arbor for the upcoming season opener.
The recruiting violations are separate from the NCAA’s investigation into sign-stealing allegations that marred Michigan’s undefeated 2023 campaign. The team’s former offensive coordinator, now head coach, is also facing allegations related to the sign-stealing scandal.
As the fallout continues, a documentary featuring a key figure in the scandal is set to debut on Netflix, shedding more light on the controversy. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
