Jim Harbaugh, 49ers Mutually Part Ways: Latest Details and Reaction

The San Francisco 49ers have mutually parted ways with head coach Jim Harbaugh after the team's failure to qualify for the 2014 NFL playoffs, thus ending a relationship that became increasingly tumultuous throughout the season.

The team confirmed the news after San Francisco beat the Arizona Cardinals 20-17 in Week 17:

CEO Jed York spoke about the issues with Harbaugh on Monday, via Matt Maiocco of CSN Bay Area:

Colin Kaepernick also weighed in on the loss of his coach via his Instagram account:

The 51-year-old coach was under contract through next season. Clearly the team decided it was best for the sides to go their separate ways before that point. The lack of cohesion at the top seemed to have an impact on a squad that failed to live up to expectations.

There was some speculation about potentially trading Harbaugh to recoup some value. Apparently the 49ers weren't able to find any serious suitors, however. Perhaps other front offices sensed the divide and decided to wait until he was let go to pursue him.

Paul Sakuma/Associated Press

He's eventually going to get another chance elsewhere. His success is too much to overlook. The only question is whether it will come in the NFL or at the collegiate level. He helped lead a turnaround at Stanford before making the jump to San Francisco.

A move to Michigan has been widely rumored in recent weeks. Matt Maiocco of CSN Bay Area passed along comments from San Francisco general manager Trent Baalke, who confirmed the Wolverines made contact.

"As long as it’s handled correctly, I think the University of Michigan, in reaching out, did handle it correctly," he said on a 95.7 The Game radio show when asked about college programs reaching out to pro coaches.

Harbaugh seemed to suggest he will soon be making the move to the Wolverines, via ESPN.com's Dan Murphy:

As for the 49ers, it will be interesting to see which types of candidates emerge to fill the vacancy. Some could be scared away by the fact Harbaugh was let go despite so much success. That said, there's no doubt the amount of talent on the roster makes the job an attractive option.

Although it wasn't always a harmonious relationship, the San Francisco-Harbaugh partnership was for the most part successful. Now the question is whether the sides can have success without each other in the years ahead.