The Carolina Panthers have hired Frank Reich as head coach.

Carolina's search came down to Reich and Steve Wilks. Wilks went 6-6 as interim head coach after Matt Rhule was fired and was the sentimental favorite by Carolina players to get the job.

Reich is the first offensive-minded head coach hired in Carolina history, which played a big role in the decision over Wilks.

Reich was the starting quarterback of the Panthers for their first game in franchise history in 1995.

Jim Harbaugh announced he will return to Michigan as head coach for the 2023 season after discussing NFL jobs with various teams for the second straight year.

"I love the relationships that I have at Michigan -- coaches, staff, families, administration, president Santa Ono and especially the players and their families," Harbaugh said in a statement. "My heart is at the University of Michigan. I once heard a wise man say, 'Don't try to out-happy, happy.' Go Blue!"

Harbaugh interviewed with the Denver Broncos and also had a conversation with Carolina Panthers owner David Tepper.

Harbaugh called the Broncos on Monday to inform them he was remaining at Michigan.

The Carolina Panthers have received permission to interview Sean Payton for their head coaching position.

The New Orleans Saints are expected to receive draft pick compensation from any team that agrees to hire Payton and could demand extra from the Panthers because they are a division rival.

Payton is a candidate for a number of other vacancies. 

John Harbaugh and Michigan released a statement indicating he plans to return to Michigan as head coach next season.

Harbaugh reportedly had a conversation with David Tipper of the Carolina Panthers.

"As I stated in December, while no one knows what the future holds, I expect that I will be enthusiastically coaching Michigan in 2023," Harbaugh said in the statement. "I have spoken with President Santa Ono and Athletic Director Warde Manuel and appreciate their support of me and our program."

Harbaugh previously interviewed with the Minnesota Vikings after the 2021 season.

David Tepper had a conversation with Jim Harbaugh about his interest in becoming head coach of the Carolina Panthers.

The conversation was not characterized as an interview.

Steve Wilks has done an excellent job as interim head coach and will be a strong candidate for the job.

Harbaugh has "sincere interest'' in the Carolina job, according to FOX Sports Charlotte. Harbaugh has coached Michigan since he parted ways with the San Francisco 49ers after the 2014 season.

The Panthers fired Matt Rhule early in the season.