Jim Harbaugh Breaks Silence on Michigan’s $20 Million NCAA Punishment

Jim Harbaugh Breaks Silence on Michigan’s $20 Million NCAA Punishment originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

The Michigan Wolverines have dominated college football headlines recently, as the NCAA officially issued extensive punishments for the sign-stealing scandals that occurred under former head coach—and current Los Angeles Chargers HC—Jim Harbaugh.

The sanctions against the program include fines totaling roughly $20 million, a four-year probation period, a 25% reduction in official visits for the 2025–26 season, and several show-cause orders.

Michigan head coach Sherrone Moore will also be suspended for three games: two self-imposed this season by the university, and one in 2026 by the NCAA.

Harbaugh received a 10-year show-cause order should he ever return to the collegiate level, while Connor Stalions, who played a central role in the scandals, was given an eight-year show-cause order.

Jim Harbaugh Speaks Out on Michigan Sanctions

With the Chargers taking the field on Saturday for their Week 2 preseason game, Harbaugh was asked about the sanctions imposed on him and the Michigan program. He offered a concise and candid response:

“Like I said to you last year, I’m not engaging.”

Jim Harbaugh was asked about the latest sanctions from the NCAA:“Like I said to you last year, I’m not engaging.” pic.twitter.com/UgOycM3Ng9

— TheWolverine.com (@TheWolverineOn3) August 17, 2025

Jim Harbaugh spent nine seasons as the head coach of the Michigan football program, leading them to a 2023 Big Ten and national championship before returning to the NFL.

At 61, it would be surprising if Harbaugh ever returned to college football. His passion has always been for coaching in the NFL, and he’s currently in an ideal position with the Chargers in L.A.

Los Angeles Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh reacts during the game against the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi Stadium. Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

The NCAA’s sign-stealing investigation began during Michigan’s championship run. Fortunately for the Wolverines, the sanctions did not affect their national title, and the program avoided a postseason ban—a potential worst-case scenario.

Related: Sherrone Moore Sends Strong Message Following Michigan’s $20 Million NCAA Punishment

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Aug 17, 2025, where it first appeared.

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