Jim Harbaugh discusses texts to Sherrone Moore after firing, Michigan coaching search

Legendary former Michigan Wolverines football head coach Jim Harbaugh has led the Los Angeles Chargers to a 10-4 start and likely playoff spot in his second season on the job. He joined the ‘Dan Patrick Show’ Tuesday to discuss that, plus the Wolverines’ head-coaching vacancy left behind by the fired Sherrone Moore, who was let go with cause due to an inappropriate relationship with a staff member, before being arrested, jailed and charged with a felony for home invasion.

In a press conference last Friday, before the Chargers beat division rival Kansas City, 16-13, on Sunday, Harbaugh said he was still processing the news. This week, he had a bit more to say.

“I still don’t have my head wrapped around it,” Harbaugh said. “It’s a tragedy, and just praying for all concern. I love my alma mater. Love Michigan. But I love the Chargers, too, and would be doing a disservice if I wasn’t putting all my focus on this game [against the Dallas Cowboys]. This is the most important game for us.”

Harbaugh said he hasn’t spoken with Moore since early December but has exchanged text messages with him since the arrest.

“I think it’s a tragedy, so the worst days of his life,” Harbaugh said of Moore’s spirits.

Added Harbaugh, of his message to his former Michigan colleague: “Keep it together, and take care of your family. That’s the message, and getting spiritual guidance. That’s really critical.”

The Wolverines are searching for their 22nd head coach, but Harbaugh hasn’t been involved with the process.

“No, I’m not,” he stated. “All focus is on the Dallas Cowboys.”

All focus for Michigan, meanwhile, is finding a new leader and preparing to take on Texas in the Citrus Bowl Dec. 31 in Orlando, Fla.

Moore worked for Harbaugh for six seasons, first as tight ends coach (2018-20) and then as offensive line coach (2021-23) and offensive coordinator. Moore was promoted to head coach in January 2024 following Harbaugh’s departure for the NFL. Harbaugh vouched for Moore to receive the job, and it was revealed later that he attempted to have written in his next contract that Moore would be the “coach in waiting.”