If Jim Harbaugh departs, could Sherrone Moore be the chosen candidate for Michigan’s head coaching position?

Jim Harbaugh has consistently shown interest in potentially leaving Michigan, and the university seems prepared for his potential exit.

If he finalizes a deal with the Los Angeles Chargers to return to the NFL, it wouldn’t be a surprise to athletic director Warde Manuel. Even before Michigan won the national title, Manuel reportedly offered Harbaugh a lucrative contract for 10 seasons. Signs of Harbaugh’s possible departure became apparent when he chose not to sign the contract and instead interviewed with the Atlanta Falcons and Chargers.

This adds to the significant coaching changes this month, including Nick Saban’s retirement at Alabama and Washington’s loss of Kalen DeBoer, who was replaced by Arizona coach Jedd Fisch, leading to more coaching shifts.

In the NFL, Bill Belichick and the Patriots also parted ways after a long tenure. Now, Harbaugh seems determined to make a high-profile move. If Harbaugh leaves, Michigan appears inclined to consider internal promotions. However, defensive coordinator Jesse Minter is reportedly part of Harbaugh’s planned staff in Los Angeles.

During Harbaugh’s suspensions last season, offensive coordinator Sherrone Moore had a brief four-game stint as head coach. Moore, a former offensive guard at Oklahoma, expressed gratitude for the opportunity and highlighted the differences in responsibilities between being a coordinator and a head coach. Despite not fitting the traditional “Michigan Man” mold, Moore, who became co-offensive coordinator in 2020, stated before the national title game that he is content in Ann Arbor and not actively seeking a head coaching position, emphasizing loyalty to the university and the Wolverines.