Stanford coach Jim Harbaugh jumps to NFL's 49ers

Stanford Coach Jim Harbaugh Joins San Francisco 49ers

Jim Harbaugh, a former NFL quarterback and successful Stanford coach, is making the leap to the professional ranks without leaving the Bay Area. According to a source familiar with the matter, Harbaugh has been hired as the new head coach of the San Francisco 49ers.

“Harbaugh, a longtime NFL quarterback, will replace fired coach Mike Singletary,”

ESPN reported, noting that he is expected to sign a five-year contract worth about $25 million.

The 49ers have scheduled a news conference in San Francisco but have yet to officially disclose details of the announcement. Harbaugh chose to move to the NFL even though the 49ers have missed the playoffs for eight consecutive years. His former quarterback, Orange Bowl MVP Andrew Luck, decided to remain at Stanford for another season.

Harbaugh has long admired the late Hall of Fame coach Bill Walsh, one of his mentors, who also made a successful transition from Stanford to the 49ers. Now, Harbaugh faces the challenge of restoring a proud franchise eager to return to contention.

This season, San Francisco was considered a favorite to win the NFC West but stumbled early, starting 0-5 — their worst opening since 1979, which marked Bill Walsh’s first year at the helm.

Author: Janie McCauley, AP Sports Writer

Author’s summary: Jim Harbaugh leaves Stanford to coach the 49ers, stepping into a legacy shaped by mentor Bill Walsh and aiming to revive a struggling team.

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KATU KATU — 2025-11-05

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