Jim Harbaugh Returns to Los Angeles Chargers as Head Coach
Los Angeles, CA (January 15, 2024) – The Los Angeles Chargers have appointed Jim Harbaugh as their new head coach. Harbaugh, a former Chargers quarterback during the 1999 and 2000 seasons, spent the past nine years as head football coach for his alma mater, the University of Michigan.
A Winning Pedigree
Harbaugh rejoins the Chargers after leading Michigan to three consecutive Big Ten Championships, three straight appearances in the College Football Playoff, and a perfect 15-0 record this past season, culminating in the Wolverines’ coronation as 2023 National Champions.
Owner and Chairman of the Board Dean Spanos expressed his confidence in Harbaugh’s leadership, emphasizing his exceptional football acumen and his ability to inspire success wherever he goes.
A Team-Building Mastermind
President of Football Operations John Spanos lauded Harbaugh’s remarkable talent for building successful teams, citing his impressive track record of developing players and his ability to create a winning culture.
Harbaugh’s coaching resume boasts a 144-52 record at the collegiate level and a 49-22-1 record in the NFL. During his four-year tenure with the San Francisco 49ers, he guided the team to three consecutive NFC Championship Games, including an appearance in Super Bowl XLVII.
A Keen Eye for Talent
Harbaugh possesses a keen eye for talent, having coached nine eventual first-round selections during his nine-season tenure at Michigan and 17 players to a combined 30 Pro Bowl selections during his four seasons with San Francisco.
A Return to Familiar Territory
Harbaugh expressed his enduring love for Michigan and his gratitude for the opportunity to coach there, acknowledging the lasting impact of his time as a player and coach with the Wolverines. He also spoke fondly of his previous stint with the Chargers, expressing his appreciation for the Spanos family’s graciousness and welcoming attitude.
A Commitment to Excellence
Harbaugh emphasized the importance of continuous improvement and hard work, acknowledging that success requires dedication and a relentless pursuit of excellence. He praised the Chargers’ investment in infrastructure and resources, recognizing the organization’s commitment to winning.
A Defensive Mastermind
During his nine seasons at Michigan, Harbaugh’s teams consistently boasted one of the nation’s top defenses, allowing just 291.0 yards per game. Michigan had a top-five defense in the country five times over those nine seasons, including twice as the top-ranked defense in the nation.
An NFL Coaching Legacy
Prior to his success at Michigan, Harbaugh established himself as a respected coach in the NFL, leading the San Francisco 49ers to three consecutive NFC Championship Game appearances and an appearance in Super Bowl XLVII. He also enjoyed success at Stanford University and the University of San Diego before that.
A Quarterback Turned Coach
Harbaugh’s coaching career began while he was still playing in the NFL, working as an unpaid assistant at Western Kentucky from 1994-2001, where his father, Jack, was the head coach. He was selected with the 25th overall pick in the 1987 NFL Draft by Chicago and went on to start 140-of-177 career games played, throwing for 26,288 yards and 129 touchdowns. He led the NFL in passer rating in 1995, earning Comeback Player of the Year recognition and a Pro Bowl selection after leading the Colts to an AFC Championship Game appearance.
A New Era for the Chargers
With Jim Harbaugh at the helm, the Los Angeles Chargers embark on a new era, fueled by his winning pedigree, his ability to build successful teams, and his unwavering commitment to excellence. The Chargers faithful can look forward to an exciting and competitive future under the leadership of one of the most accomplished coaches in football.