Once Jim Harbaugh and the San Francisco 49ers agreed to part ways, the road to Michigan was wide open and now it appears he will take it.

Via Twitter, Adam Schefter reported for ESPN Monday morning that the University of Michigan (UM) will hold a press conference Tuesday to officially announce Harbaugh's hiring, citing unnamed sources. There was speculation that Harbaugh would have wanted to stay in the NFL and in the Bay Area, but now it seems his return to his alma mater is a done deal.

The Detroit Free Press reported late Sunday night that Harbaugh's departure from the 49ers was the latest of a series of "signs" that indicated the hiring.The newspaper also reported Monday morning that their own sources confirmed the Tuesday announcement.

But nearly two weeks ago, Marcellus Wiley, a co-host on the ESPN show "Sports Nation," cited two sources who said there was already a deal in place between Harbaugh and UM. Wiley's report turned heads because he is a co-host/analyst, whereas Schefter is an insider. Wiley also mentioned a Tuesday announcement via Twitter early Sunday morning.

Michigan athletic department officials were reportedly at 49ers regular season finale Sunday to meet with Harbaugh afterward. The announcement of Harbaugh's departure came shortly after the conclusion of the game. He gave a 20-minute postgame press conference where he delivered a statement on his time with the 49ers and answered questions.

Harbaugh went 49-22-1 with the team, including the playoffs.

"I count up these wins, and that's 49 wins, and that seems appropriate," Harbaugh said in his presser. "That seems pretty darn good."

Harbaugh, a former Wolverine quarterback, will be expected to restore the Wolverines, the winningest team in college football history, to their former glory.

UM was apparently intent on signing Harbaugh, as they elected to go without a head football coach through the start of recruiting season. It is unclear yet if Harbaugh's contract with Michigan is the reported six-year deal worth $48 million.

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