As Jim Harbaugh negotiates with Chargers, Michigan now willing to grant immunity for NCAA violations

An NCAA rule that makes it more likely Jim Harbaugh could be charged with major NCAA violations has been at the heart of the coach’s contract negotiations with Michigan, sources tell CBS Sports. 

Under the NCAA’s coach responsibility provision, which was strengthened just one year ago on Jan. 1, 2023, Harbaugh would be charged with a Level I violation in the sign-stealing scandal if any member of his staff is found to have committed a Level I violation. The charge itself cannot be argued; however, the severity of the penalty can be debated before the NCAA Committee on Infractions. 

The Level I finding would remain on Harbaugh’s record no matter his level of compliance, monitoring or diligence in the matter. The modified rule is why Harbaugh’s representatives have been seeking immunity from Michigan.

Harbaugh has interviewed with at least two NFL teams while he considers his future with the Wolverines. On Tuesday, he entered into negotiations with the Los Angeles Chargers to fill their head-coaching vacancy, according to CBS Sports HQ senior NFL insider Josina Anderson.

Wherever he lands — including in the NFL with the Chargers — Harbaugh wants full control. To this point, Los Angeles has been hesitant to give him complete personnel power, sources tell CBS Sports, which is why the sides have yet to come to an agreement.

Harbaugh has already completed an interview with the Atlanta Falcons and could be headed back for a second conversation in Atlanta on Thursday if the Chargers let him out of the building, sources tell CBS Sports.

Meanwhile, Michigan has come around in its contract negotiations with Harbaugh. The Wolverines are now willing to grant their coach immunity from termination for the two ongoing NCAA investigations into the…

Source link : https://www.cbssports.com/college-football/news/as-jim-harbaugh-negotiates-with-chargers-michigan-now-willing-to-grant-immunity-for-ncaa-violations/

Author : Dennis Dodd

Publish date : 2024-01-24 23:23:39

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