The Harbaugh name resonates deeply within the landscape of American football. At the heart of this legacy are brothers John and Jim Harbaugh, sons of the esteemed coach Jack Harbaugh. Together, they’ve carved out remarkable careers, amassing over 300 NFL games coached. John boasts a Super Bowl victory, while Jim has secured a national championship at the college level, distinctions that set them apart.
Their coaching philosophies are undeniably rooted in the teachings of their father, Jack, a sideline veteran of over 40 years, including 19 as a college head coach. Now, with Jim Harbaugh’s return to the NFL, he and John stand alone as the only pair of siblings currently leading NFL teams. This article delves into their relationship, exploring their ages, coaching histories, and the factors that contribute to their enduring success in the demanding world of professional football.
How Old are the Harbaugh Brothers?
John Harbaugh, the elder of the two, is currently 62 years old, born on September 23, 1962. Jim Harbaugh, the younger brother, is 60 years old, having been born on December 23, 1963. Both brothers share a birthplace of Toledo, Ohio, but their upbringing was shaped by their father’s coaching career, leading to moves throughout their childhood.
The fifteen-month age difference sees John taking the lead in coaching experience. He transitioned directly into coaching after his playing days concluded in 1984 and has been the head coach of the Baltimore Ravens since 2008, establishing a long and successful tenure.
Jim’s path included a notable 14-year career as an NFL quarterback after being drafted in the first round of the 1987 NFL Draft. Even during his playing career, Jim’s passion for coaching was evident as he served as an unpaid college assistant. He fully embraced coaching in 2002, spending nine seasons leading his alma mater, the University of Michigan, to impressive heights before making his return to the NFL as the head coach of the Los Angeles Chargers in 2024.
Alt text: A portrait of John Harbaugh, head coach of the Baltimore Ravens, highlighting his experienced leadership in the NFL.
John and Jim Harbaugh: Comparing Coaching Records
As they progress through the 2024 NFL season, the Harbaugh brothers’ combined NFL head coaching record stands at an impressive 218-126-1. John Harbaugh, with 17 seasons under his belt, has solidified his place among the top-20 winningest head coaches in NFL history, a testament to his consistent success and longevity.
Jim Harbaugh’s NFL head coaching experience is currently shorter, with four seasons leading the San Francisco 49ers before his return to the league. However, his win percentage is remarkably high. Furthermore, his college coaching record is outstanding, boasting a 144-52 record, culminating in a national championship victory with Michigan, showcasing his ability to build winning programs at different levels.
NFL Head Coaching Records
| John Harbaugh | Jim Harbaugh | |
|---|---|---|
| Seasons | 17 | 5 |
| Record (Pct.) | 167-103 (.619) | 51-22-1 (.696) |
| Playoff Record (Pct.) | 12-10 (.545) | 5-3 (.625) |
Alt text: Jim Harbaugh intensely watches the game from the Los Angeles Chargers sideline, demonstrating his passionate coaching style.
Harbaugh Brothers Head-to-Head History
The sibling rivalry between John and Jim Harbaugh has played out on the NFL stage twice, famously including Super Bowl 47. They are set to face each other for the third time in Week 12 of the 2024 season, adding another chapter to their intertwined careers.
Currently, John holds a 2-0 advantage over Jim in head-to-head matchups:
- Nov. 24, 2011: Baltimore Ravens 16, San Francisco 49ers 6
- Feb. 3, 2013: Baltimore Ravens 34, San Francisco 49ers 31 (Super Bowl 47)
- Nov. 25, 2024: Baltimore Ravens at Los Angeles Chargers – upcoming game
This upcoming game is highly anticipated, not just for its implications in the 2024 season, but also for the renewed Harbaugh versus Harbaugh storyline.
Conclusion
The ages of Jim and John Harbaugh are more than just numbers; they represent years of accumulated wisdom, experience, and dedication to the sport of football. From their shared upbringing under the tutelage of their father Jack, to their individual ascents in the coaching world, the Harbaugh brothers have established themselves as a true coaching dynasty. As they continue to shape the NFL landscape, their ages serve as a reminder of the enduring impact and lasting legacy of the Harbaugh family on American football.
