Stanford coach Jim Harbaugh jumps to NFL's 49ers

Stanford Coach Jim Harbaugh Joins NFL's San Francisco 49ers

Jim Harbaugh, former Stanford head coach and longtime NFL quarterback, is set to become the new head coach of the San Francisco 49ers. He will replace Mike Singletary, who was recently fired.

A source aware of the situation informed The Associated Press on Friday, speaking anonymously as the team had not yet officially announced the hire. According to ESPN, Harbaugh is expected to sign a five-year contract valued at $25 million.

Transition to the NFL

Despite Stanford quarterback Andrew Luck opting to stay another season in college and the 49ers missing the playoffs for eight consecutive years, Harbaugh chose to make the move to professional football.

"Harbaugh long admired the late Hall of Fame coach Bill Walsh, one of his mentors, and how Walsh successfully transitioned from Stanford to the 49ers."

Harbaugh now faces the challenge of revitalizing the 49ers, a storied franchise eager to return to contention after a difficult start to the current season.

49ers' Recent Struggles

This season, the 49ers were predicted to win the NFC West but began 0-5, marking their worst start since 1979—coincidentally Bill Walsh's first year as head coach.

"The 49ers started 0-5 for their worst start since losing seven straight to begin a 2-14 season in 1979."

Upcoming Announcement

The team planned an afternoon press conference in San Francisco but gave no details on the agenda.

Author's summary: Jim Harbaugh leaves Stanford to coach the struggling 49ers, signing a lucrative five-year deal to lead the franchise’s turnaround inspired by Bill Walsh’s legacy.

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KATU KATU — 2025-11-05

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