NCAA determines former Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh committed recruiting violations, issues penalty

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Former Michigan football coach Jim Harbaugh learned his fate Wednesday. 

The NCAA handed down a four-year show-cause order for Harbaugh after determining the coach had impermissible contact with recruits and players during the COVID-19 restricted period. The organization determined Harbaugh "engaged in unethical conduct, failed to promote an atmosphere of compliance and violated head coach responsibility obligations."

The ruling effectively means Harbaugh will not be able to coach at the college level for the next four years. He would be eligible for reinstatement in August 2028. 

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Jim Harbaugh of the Michigan Wolverines speaks onstage during the national championship celebration at Crisler Center Jan. 13, 2024 in Ann Arbor, Mich. (Aaron J. Thornton/Getty Images)

Harbaugh coached the Wolverines to the College Football Playoff national championship in January. Just over two weeks later, he was named the next head coach of the Los Angeles Chargers. Michigan was previously placed on probation for three years and fined. 

The football program also faces recruiting limits, all of which were included in a negotiated resolution in the case. But Harbaugh did not fall in line with the agreement. Harbaugh disputed the allegations, which said he failed to cooperate with investigators, so his case was handled separately.

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Jim Harbaugh of the Los Angeles Chargers at the podium before practice at Hoag Performance Center June 13, 2024, in Costa Mesa, Calif. (Ric Tapia/Getty Images)

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