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Every year since he arrived in Ann Arbor, Jim Harbaugh has had to denounce rumors that he would leave Michigan for the NFL. This season has been no different.
A week ago, FootballScoop.com reported that Harbaugh was planning an “exit strategy” from Michigan and eyeing a return at the NFL. Harbaugh called those rumors “total crap” in a letter to recruits and parents, saying it was a plan by his team’s “enemies” to negatively recruit against the Wolverines.
On Monday, during his weekly press conference, Harbaugh elaborated on his comments about the letter, saying he wanted to keep the lines of communication open among recruits and parents.
Ashley Bastock of Toledo Blade Sports had some of Harbaugh’s comments on the situation:
Harbaugh on the letter to recruits, says he sent it out to keep the "lines of communication open."
— Ashley Bastock (@AshleyBastock42) October 28, 2019
RE: the term "enemies" in the letter, said he was referring to "people who choose not to tell the truth"
— Ashley Bastock (@AshleyBastock42) October 28, 2019
The rumors began swirling following Michigan’s 28-21 loss to Penn State. But those have since quieted down since Harbaugh’s letter to recruits, as well as the Wolverines’ 45-14 pounding of No. 8 Notre Dame in Ann Arbor.
So, the NFL rumors involving Harbaugh have seemingly run their course this season. Don’t be surprised if they resurface again next season.
Dustin grew up in the heart of Big Ten country and has been in sports media since 2010. He has been covering Big Ten football since 2014. You can follow him on Twitter: @SchutteCFB