Jim Harbaugh will return to the NFL

The Los Angeles Chargers announced Wednesday that Jim Harbaugh is their new head coach.

Harbaugh left Michigan after nine seasons, where he led the Wolverines to a College Football Playoff national title earlier this month.

ESPN’s Adam Schefter first reported the news. Brandon Staley was fired in December; Harbaugh replaces him.

In a team statement, Harbaugh, 60, said he will “always be a loyal Wolverine” and is excited for his Chargers career.

“I’m remarkably fortunate to have been afforded the privilege of coaching at places where life’s journey has created strong personal connections for me,” Harbaugh said. Being back here feels like home, and it's great to see those things haven't changed.”

Dean Spanos, Chargers owner and board chair, called Harbaugh “football personified”.

Jim, the son, brother, and father of a coach who was coached by Schembechler and Ditka, has coached hundreds of men to success for 20 years. Our coach, Jim Harbaugh, returns to the Chargers today. Who has it better?”

Four seasons as San Francisco 49ers head coach gave Harbaugh NFL experience.

He lost Super Bowl XLVII to his older brother and Baltimore Ravens coach John Harbaugh in 2012. In four NFL seasons, Harbaugh led the 49ers to the NFC championship game three times and went 49-22-1, including 5-3 in the playoffs.