ANN ARBOR (WWJ) - The University of Michigan has retracted their contract offer to head coach Jim Harbaugh, which would have made him the highest-paid coach in the Big Ten, “The Wall Street Journal” reports.
The offer has been rescinded following the Big Ten’s confirmation of the NCAA’s investigation into sign-stealing by the football program.
According to the article by “The Wall Street Journal”, “the NCAA is investigating whether Michigan executed a scheme to illegally steal opponents’ play-calling signs.”
The NCAA does not allow for football programs to scout future opponents in-person.
The article reports that Michigan’s success this year “put him in line for another raise.” Harbaugh received a new contract last year.
Connor Stalions, a Michigan football staff member, has been suspended. It is alleged that he is at the center of the investigation. “The Wall Street Journal'' reported that over the last three years, Stalions bought tickets to more than 30 games of future opponents.
Stalions has not made a comment.
In addition to the sign-stealing allegations, Harbaugh is facing a Level I NCAA violation for reportedly lying during an investigation in relation to recruitment violations during the Covid-19 dead period.