Pssst, want to hear a secret? Jim Harbaugh won't be with the San Francisco 49ers next year.
What, you already know?!
Oh right, I forgot Harbaugh's long expected split from San Fran has been talked about non-stop since the NFL season began back in September. It's likely that the move will become official sometime early next week after the 49ers close out the regular season against the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday. Making matters even more definitive are comments from Jim's brother John Harbaugh, current head coach of the Baltimore Ravens.
"I know just from Jim's standpoint, he's done something there that's been absolutely historic and amazing," John said to CSNBaltimore.com. "It's never been really accomplished in the history of football before in terms of what he's done for the city and for the fans there and for the players there. And I'm proud as heck of him.
"Whatever's next for him, he'll do a great job there, whatever it is. He'll be fired up and excited to do it, so I'm proud of him no matter what happens. I think they had a great coach there for the last four years, and they were blessed and fortunate to have him. I know the fans realize that and the players realize that, and that's really what counts."
John is right to point out Jim's success in San Fran. Despite a lackluster 7-8 season this year, the 49ers have gone 42-19-1 under Harbaugh. That includes three straight post-season berths and a Super Bowl appearance.
Harbaugh is the guy who rescued quarterback Alex Smith from entering the all-time bust category. He's also the guy that developed Colin Kaepernick into a star while spearheading one of the league's best defenses over the last four years. Harbaugh may be a bit abrasive, but it's obvious that the guy can coach.
The Niners could trade or fire Harbaugh next week. If it's the latter, Harbaugh will have his share of jobs to pick from, including an offer from the University of Michigan that would make him the highest paid coach in college football.
Whatever happens, it's clear that Harbaugh's tenure with SF is coming to a close.
