Stanford Coach Jim Harbaugh Joins NFL's 49ers
Jim Harbaugh, a former NFL quarterback and successful Stanford coach, has been hired as the new head coach of the San Francisco 49ers. He replaces Mike Singletary, who was recently fired.
A source familiar with the situation, speaking anonymously since the team had not yet officially announced the hire, confirmed the decision to The Associated Press on Friday. According to ESPN, Harbaugh is expected to sign a five-year contract worth $25 million.
Harbaugh’s Transition to the NFL
Despite Stanford quarterback Andrew Luck choosing to stay another season, Harbaugh decided to move to the professional level. The 49ers have struggled in recent years, missing the playoffs for eight straight seasons.
"Harbaugh long admired the late Hall of Fame coach Bill Walsh, one of his mentors, and how Walsh made the successful leap from Stanford to the 49ers."
Harbaugh now faces the challenge of reviving a once-proud franchise eager to return to championship contention. The 49ers started their current season 0-5, marking their worst start since 1979, Bill Walsh’s first year as coach, when they lost seven straight games and finished 2-14.
Upcoming Announcement
The 49ers had scheduled a news conference in San Francisco but did not reveal the reason beforehand, fueling speculation around Harbaugh’s hiring.
Summary
Jim Harbaugh's move to the 49ers marks a major step in his coaching career, with hopes to restore a struggling franchise inspired by his mentor Bill Walsh’s path.