NFL Coach: Michigan's Jim Harbaugh Wants to Be Chargers HC Despite Raiders' Interest

The Los Angeles Chargers have emerged as the clubhouse favorite for Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh, according to The Athletic's Mike Sando.

Sando cited seven coaches and executives around the NFL who believe "the Chargers made the most sense." The Las Vegas Raiders were listed as a contender as well, but one coach downplayed that possibility.

"They want Harbaugh, and he wants them," the coach said of the Chargers. "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."

All things being equal financially, the Chargers certainly look like the most attractive vacancy.

Los Angeles already has its franchise quarterback in Justin Herbert, and it's only a year removed from winning 10 games and reaching the playoffs. Some changes to the roster are expected, but a dramatic overhaul shouldn't be required.

The Raiders, on the other hand, have to find a new quarterback, and executing a larger teardown might be the right play despite a 5-4 finish to the year under Antonio Pierce. In addition, a new coach might have to get over the early hurdles of getting the job over the popular Pierce.

Sando predicted Las Vegas will take the interim tag off Pierce and name him the permanent replacement for Josh McDaniels, unless team owner Mark Davis can land Harbaugh.

If Harbaugh has his choice, it might be a moot issue.