Harbaugh starts season with two years left on deal

ANN ARBOR, MICH. » Usually, college football coaches at major programs have many years on their contract that helps them persuade recruits to sign with the school.

Michigan’s Jim Harbaugh enters his sixth season as coach with two years left on his deal that pays him about $7 million per season, adding another layer of interest to the 18thranked Wolverines as they kick off the season this week at No. 21 Minnesota.

Harbaugh said in July that he was closing in on a contract extension earlier this year before dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic became a top priority for him and the school.

Harbaugh was on a Zoom call with reporters on Oct. 19, for the first time in three-plus months, and said there was no update on contract talks.

“Other fish — bigger fish — to fry,” he said.

What his message to recruits, who may hear other coaches question Harbaugh’s commitment to the school or vice versa?

“Go Blue,” Harbaugh said.

Michigan linebacker James Ross got to know

Harbaugh when his brother, James, played linebacker for him in 2015 and his first impression of him has not changed over the years.

“Coach Harbaugh was a very passionate guy, very motivated guy,” Ross said. “He rallies all of us together as one. I love that guy and I’m glad he’s in my head coach.”

Harbaugh is 47-18 overall with the Wolverines and 3212 in the Big Ten, including an 0-5 record against the Buckeyes. Michigan athletic director Warde Manuel has said repeatedly that he wants Harbaugh to lead the Wolverines until he chooses to retire from coaching.