Real Recognize Real report (1/18) – Reading into Harbaugh’s second interview with the Falcons

Earlier this evening NFLcom’s Tom Pelissero reported the Atlanta Falcons would be conducting a second interview with Jim Harbaugh next week. He’ll join former New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick on the list of candidates to receive second looks. That’s not just noteworthy news on the Falcons front (where Belichick is the presumed favorite), it’s noteworthy on the Chargers front as well.

Many in NFL circles have mentioned Harbaugh as the favorite to be the Bolts next headman, and after the organization met its Rooney Rule requirement of two in-person interviews with minority candidates with yesterday’s interview of David Shaw, there’s been ample speculation about things progressing with Harbaugh. But the second interview with the Falcons suggests things aren’t moving along as some predicted. I reached out to my top NFL agent source for some informed speculation on the matter, and he believes there’s a good chance money is at least part of the reason. Especially given what Harbaugh has indicated he’s looking for in the way of salary (i.e. doubling it).

Michigan in the NFL playoffs, divisional round: Fourteen former Wolverine stars still alive in playoffs

he Michigan football team’s playoff run may be complete, but plenty of former Wolverines are chasing a championship of their own in the NFL Playoffs, which continue with the divisional round games taking place this week.

Though nine Wolverines saw their teams eliminated last weekend (see more on them in the second half of this story), 14 former Michigan players remain alive in the NFL playoffs. That includes eight players slated to be starters in this weekend’s games.

Take a look at all 23 players’ seasons below, as well as what to expect in this weekend’s games.

Just like his team, Nico Collins has enjoyed an exceptional breakout season. The former Michigan started a healthy 927 receiving yards and three touchdowns in his first two seasons, but burst onto the national scene with 80 catches, 1,287 yards (eighth in the NFL) and eight touchdowns (also eighth). That included an exceptional week 18 performance, in which he recorded nine catches for 195 yards and a touchdown. 

He and the Texans (10-7 regular season, 1-0 playoffs) have won four of five to advance to the divisional round. Last week in his playoff debut, Collins caught six passes for 96 yards and a touchdown, and added a four-yard run in Houston’s 45-14 win.

Linebacker David Ojabo (injured reserve)

Fullback Ben Mason (practice squad)

Linebacker Josh Ross (practice squad)

The Ravens have three former Michigan players on their roster, but none are currently expected to play in the playoffs. Ojabo played in three games this season, recording six tackles, one sack and one forced fumble before missing the rest of the season with season-ending ACL injury.