Jim Harbaugh, a former NFL quarterback and successful Stanford coach, is set to become the head coach of the San Francisco 49ers, replacing the recently fired Mike Singletary. According to ESPN, Harbaugh is expected to sign a five-year contract worth $25 million.
A source familiar with the situation, speaking anonymously because the team had not yet announced the hire, confirmed Harbaugh's move to the 49ers. The team scheduled a news conference in San Francisco but did not reveal the purpose in advance.
Despite the 49ers missing the playoffs for eight consecutive seasons and the recent decision of quarterback Andrew Luck to stay at Stanford for another year, Harbaugh chose to transition to the NFL. He faces the challenge of reviving a storied franchise eager to contend again.
"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."
This season, the 49ers started with an 0-5 record, their worst since 1979 when they lost seven straight to start a 2-14 season — Bill Walsh's first year as coach. Despite preseason expectations to win the NFC West, the team has struggled early.
Harbaugh's move to the 49ers marks a significant transition from college football to the NFL, aiming to restore success to a historically great franchise.
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