Even though the Seattle Seahawks are gearing up for a playoff run that could end with them earning the No. 1 seed in the NFC, Mike Macdonald now needs to worry about the collegiate ranks pilfering one of his more respected assistant coaches.
Following some extremely concerning behavior from then-head coach Sherrone Moore, Michigan chose to fire their leading man after two seasons and open up a power vacuum in the Big Ten. A program of Michigan's stature is likely going to swing for the fences in finding a replacement.
Even though Jim Harbaugh got into some extracurricular activities that ultimately led to what became a lengthy show-cause order, he did lead the Wolverines to a national championship. Perhaps going back to the Harbaugh well is what the big wigs over in Ann Arbor will try to do.
If that is indeed the path they choose, Seahawks special teams coordinator Jay Harbaugh could be at the top of Michigan's shortlist of potential candidates. With Washington Commanders quarterback coach Tavita Pritchard having bolted to join Stanford, there is precedent for a top assistant leaving the pros for college in this hiring cycle.
Seahawks STC Jay Harbaugh could be a candidate for vacant Michigan job
The younger Harbaugh spent nearly a decade in Ann Arbor working on the special teams between 2015 and 2023 under his father. While holding the special teams coordinator position, Harbaugh simultaneously was the team's running backs, tight ends, and safeties coach at various points.
Harbaugh technically has a 1-0 record as a head coach, as he presided over a 35-7 win over UNLV when his father was suspended. Since arriving in Seattle under another Michigan man in Macdonald, the Seahawks have put together some iffy special teams. However, 2025 has shown major improvements.
If Michigan wants to look to the pro ranks for its next coach, options are limited. Jim is currently under a show-cause order that makes it nearly impossible for him to work in college until the 2038 season due to violations. His defensive coordinator, Jesse Minter, is expected to receive interest for NFL jobs this hiring cycle.
Michigan needs someone who can drag the program from a very dark place after the latest news surrounding Moore was revealed. With the older members of the Harbaugh family rooting themselves firmly in the NFL, it might be time for the new generation to get a crack at leading the Wolverines.