Why is Jim Harbaugh under investigation? Broncos head coaching target reportedly in hot water after Level I violation
Jim Harbaugh, currently the head coach at the University of Michigan, is rumored to be in trouble with the NCAA. Michigan's football program is under investigation for several possible rule violations, including Harbaugh for lack of cooperation with investigators, which is a Level I violation. The Wolverines' head coach is reportedly being targeted by the Denver Broncos as their next head coach.
The NCAA has prepared a draft of a notice of allegations, which, once given to the school, will begin a 90-day opening on the case prior to official notice being given. Michigan is also being looked into for four Level II violations, which are commonly deemed minor infractions.
It focuses on using too many coaches at practice sessions, meeting recruits in a COVID-19 dead period, and viewing player workouts via a video feed. The Level I violation claim is that Jim Harbaugh deceived NCAA investigators when faced with questions about Level II assertions. A Level I violation could lead to major recruiting limitations or even a suspension for many games.
Will Jim Harbaugh remain at Michigan amid potential NCAA violations?
His contract allows Michigan to fire him “for cause” if “the NCAA or the Conference, or the University reasonably determines that (i) the Head Coach has committed a material violation of the material provision of the Governing Rules (including without limitation, a Level I or Level II violation of NCAA Rules).”
However, to reach that level, the complete NCAA procedure, which could take months or years, will probably need to completely play itself out. The school could also stand behind him as he's led the Michigan Wolverines to back-to-back Big Ten titles and College Football Playoff appearances. Harbaugh has never before been cited for a Level I violation.
The allegations and the doubts surrounding them could explain some of Harbaugh’s interest in the Broncos' head coaching opening. The Wolverines' head coach issued a statement regarding his plans for next season.
Harbaugh said:
“As I stated in December, while no one knows what the future holds, I expect that I will be enthusiastically coaching Michigan in 2023."
We'll see what happens to Michigan and Jim Harbaugh regarding the violations and a possible return to the NFL.
If you use any of the above quotes, please credit Yahoo Sports and H/T Sportskeeda.