NFL coach: Jim Harbaugh 'wants' to coach this AFC West team

Many in league circles believe the Los Angeles Chargers and Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh have a mutual interest.

"They want Harbaugh, and he wants them," an anonymous coach said, per The Athletic's Mike Sando. "So I would think they would get that done. The Raiders want Harbaugh, too, so the Raiders could outbid them, but I don't think that will happen."

Sando added Raiders interim HC Antonio Pierce has earned the locker room's trust, which could lead to him landing the job. Plus, L.A. already has a franchise quarterback in Justin Herbert, making it a more attractive destination.

The Chargers have avoided hiring strong-willed HCs like Harbaugh. However, one league executive thinks they should go all in to restore confidence throughout the organization.

"They have been cheap, but they know they have to do something, and they have opened their wallet for players. They have the new stadium, the money it brings in," the exec. said, per Sando. "There is no one there in ownership that would keep Harbaugh from taking the job. They might get cold feet after they meet with Harbaugh, because of his personality, but they have to do something for the city, the fan base, the players, everyone."

Los Angeles (5-12) was one of the league's most disappointing teams this season. It missed the playoffs, ranking 21st in the league in points scored (20.4) and 24th in points allowed (23.4).

Employing a passionate coach with a proven track record could help the team turn it around. Harbaugh served as 49ers HC from 2011-14, posting a 44-19-1 record and guiding San Francisco to a Super Bowl Bowl XLVII appearance. He's also led Michigan to three straight College Football Playoff trips.