It is being reported that Michigan is preparing a five-year, $55-million contract extension for coach Jim Harbaugh, according to Sports Illustrated.

The $11-million yearly salary bump, however, is caught on a snag. Richard Johnson of SI reports is Michigan wants a commitment from the coach – in writing – that he will not pursue an NFL job in “this cycle.”

Harbaugh, who has an 87-25 record in nine years at Michigan, has taken the Wolverines to three straight College Football Playoff appearances. No. 1-ranked Michigan faces No. 4 Alabama on Jan. 1 at the Rose Bowl.

However, it hasn’t been all sunshine and rainbows for Harbaugh at Michigan. He serves a self-imposed three-game suspension related to NCAA violations that occurred during the COVID-19 dead period. That was followed by the Michigan sign-stealing operation, which resulted in another three-game suspension.

Mark Heim is a reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim. He can be heard on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5 FM in Mobile or on the free Sound of Mobile App from 6 to 9 a.m. daily.