Most Talked-About Controversies Linked to Jim Harbaugh

Controversies are a part of history. Explore the biggest scandals linked to Jim Harbaugh.

Jim Harbaugh is an American football coach and former quarterback. He's known for his successful coaching career, including stints as head coach for the Los Angeles Chargers (NFL), University of Michigan, San Francisco 49ers, Stanford University, and University of San Diego. As a player, Harbaugh was a quarterback in the NFL for 14 seasons, most notably with the Chicago Bears (1987-1993). He also played college football at Michigan (1983-1986). Harbaugh has a proven track record of success at both the collegiate and professional levels.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

1986: Victory over Ohio State

In 1986, Jim Harbaugh guaranteed a victory over Ohio State, and the Wolverines defeated the Buckeyes, 26–24.

1997: Struggles and Altercation with Jim Kelly

In 1997, Indianapolis fell to 3–13. Jim Harbaugh had a 2-9 record as starter. He missed four games in 1997 after punching former quarterback Jim Kelly in the face.

October 30, 2005: Arrest for DUI

On October 30, 2005, Harbaugh was arrested for DUI in Encinitas, California, after running a stop sign. He later pleaded guilty to reckless driving and was sentenced to probation, a fine, and a DUI educational program.

March 2007: Controversial Comments about Pete Carroll

In March 2007, Jim Harbaugh made controversial comments about USC's head coach Pete Carroll, suggesting Carroll would leave USC after the upcoming year, causing a minor uproar. Harbaugh later praised USC at the Pacific-10 Conference media day.

2013: Power Struggle with General Manager

It has been suggested that in 2013 Jim Harbaugh was involved in a power struggle with 49ers general manager Trent Baalke starting.

December 28, 2014: Parting Ways with the 49ers

On December 28, 2014, the 49ers announced that they had mutually agreed to part ways with Jim Harbaugh as their head coach after an 8-8 season. However, Harbaugh later suggested that he was forced out, not that it was a mutual decision.

2015: Rumors of Departure

On October 5, 2014, it was rumored that Jim Harbaugh would not return in 2015 regardless of that season's outcome, although owner Jed York denied the claims at the time.

April 2020: Opposition to Abortion Stated

In a podcast interview in April 2020, Jim Harbaugh expressed his opposition to abortion, labeling medical abortion as "horrendous" and emphasizing the sanctity of life.

July 2022: Speech at Anti-Abortion Event

In July 2022, Jim Harbaugh spoke at an anti-abortion event, advocating for the rights of the unborn with the statement, "Have the courage to let the unborn be born".

August 23, 2023: Harbaugh Suspended for Recruiting Violations

On August 23, 2023, Michigan announced a self-imposed suspension for Harbaugh for the first three games of the 2023 season due to violations of recruiting regulations.

August 7, 2024: NCAA Show-Cause Order

On August 7, 2024, Harbaugh received a four-year show-cause order from the NCAA for unethical conduct in 2021, including violations of recruitment rules during the COVID-19 dead period, with significant restrictions imposed on his coaching duties should he return to collegiate coaching.

August 15, 2025: Additional Show-Cause Order

On August 15, 2025, Harbaugh was given an additional 10-year show-cause order for his role in an illegal scouting and sign-stealing operation at Michigan, which is to begin after the end of his previous show-cause order running until 2028. The NCAA criticized him for not cooperating with the investigation and stipulated a suspension for the first season of his return to collegiate coaching after 2028.