When Michigan hired former football coach Jim Harbaugh ahead of the 2015 season, the school knew that it was getting two things: a proven winner and a coach who understood the heart and soul of the program. After years of struggle, the Wolverines were ready for a turnaround, and Harbaugh was the man to lead them back to glory.
Harbaugh’s Coaching Legacy
Harbaugh delivered on his promise of a championship, revitalizing Michigan’s football program and making them competitive in the Big Ten once again. His deep-rooted connection to the university as a "Michigan Man" gave him unique insight into what it would take to restore the program’s former glory. With a track record of transforming teams into winners, he was the perfect fit for the Wolverines.
But Harbaugh’s journey didn’t stop at Michigan. After achieving success at the college level, he made a bold return to the NFL, aiming to add a Lombardi Trophy to his impressive collection. His experience as a player and coach at both levels continues to serve him well as he seeks to join the ranks of coaching legends.
Where did Jim Harbaugh play football?
Harbaugh’s football journey began at the University of Michigan, where he played from 1982 to 1986. As a three-year starter, he quickly made a name for himself. His debut as a starter was nothing short of spectacular, leading the Wolverines to a stunning 22-14 upset victory over the top-ranked Miami Hurricanes, led by Bernie Kosar.
During his time at Michigan, Harbaugh showcased his skills and determination. He earned the starting role in 1984 after a fierce competition, and his performance solidified his status as a top NFL prospect. By the time he was drafted in 1987, he had built a reputation as a fierce competitor and a talented quarterback.
Did Jim Harbaugh play in the NFL?
Absolutely! Harbaugh was drafted 26th overall by the Chicago Bears in 1987 and went on to enjoy a remarkable 14-season career in the NFL. He made 140 starts across four different teams, showcasing his versatility and resilience as a quarterback. His best season came in 1995 when he finished fourth in MVP voting and earned a spot in the Pro Bowl.
Throughout his NFL career, Harbaugh played for six teams, including the Bears, Colts, Ravens, Chargers, Lions, and Panthers. He spent the majority of his time with the Bears, where he posted a respectable 35-30 record as a starter. His time with the Colts was particularly impressive, as he completed over 60% of his passes and threw for nearly 8,705 yards during his four seasons there.
Jim Harbaugh’s NFL teams
Here’s a quick look at the teams Harbaugh played for during his NFL career:
- Chicago Bears (1987-93)
- Indianapolis Colts (1994-97)
- Baltimore Ravens (1998)
- San Diego Chargers (1999-2000)
- Detroit Lions (2001)
- Carolina Panthers (2001)
While he didn’t see game action for the Lions or Panthers in his final year, Harbaugh made a significant impact during his stints with the Bears and Colts, solidifying his legacy as a competent and competitive quarterback.
Jim Harbaugh’s NFL stats
Harbaugh’s NFL career was marked by solid statistics and memorable performances. He won at least 10 games in two seasons with the Bears and had a standout Pro Bowl campaign with the Colts, where he completed 63.7% of his passes for 2,575 yards, 17 touchdowns, and only five interceptions.
Throughout his career, Harbaugh also showcased his ability to run the ball, accumulating 2,787 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns. For context, that’s more rushing yards than the legendary Bo Jackson had during his time in the NFL.
In total, he played in five playoff games, going 2-3 and throwing for six touchdowns while battling against some of the league’s toughest defenses.
Jim Harbaugh’s college stats
During his college days, Harbaugh posted impressive numbers that helped pave the way for his NFL career. His stats from his four active seasons at Michigan reveal a quarterback who was not only capable of passing but also a dual-threat option.
Here’s a snapshot of his college statistics:
| Year | Comp. % | Yards | Pass TDs | INTs | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1983 | 40.0 | 26 | 0 | 0 | 83.7 |
| 1984 | 54.1 | 718 | 3 | 5 | 108.3 |
| 1985 | 65.6 | 1,913 | 18 | 6 | 163.7 |
| 1986 | 65.7 | 2,557 | 10 | 8 | 157.0 |
While NCAA stats count sacks as negative rushing yards, Harbaugh still managed to rush for 326 yards and nine touchdowns, showcasing his versatility and ability to contribute in multiple ways.
Did Jim Harbaugh win a Super Bowl as a player?
Unfortunately, Harbaugh never secured a Super Bowl ring during his playing days. His closest brush with glory came in 1996 when he led the Colts to the AFC Championship game. However, he did reach the Super Bowl twice as a coach, including the memorable Harbaugh vs. Harbaugh showdown in Super Bowl 47, where his 49ers fell just short against his brother John’s Ravens.
Despite these near misses, Harbaugh’s passion for the game remains unwavering. His journey through college and professional football has made him a beloved figure in the sport, and his relentless pursuit of excellence continues to inspire fans and players alike.
As he embarks on this new chapter in the NFL, one can’t help but wonder: will this be the season he finally adds that elusive Lombardi Trophy to his collection? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: Jim Harbaugh’s story is far from over.
