In a strategic move that promises to elevate Michigan football's offensive line performance, the Wolverines have secured Jim Harding, a veteran coach with an impressive 12-year tenure at Utah, as their new offensive line coach.

Harding brings an extraordinary track record to Ann Arbor, having developed 11 All-Pac-12 and All-Big 12 players and shepherded seven offensive linemen into NFL careers during his time with the Utes. His most recent triumph includes coaching Spencer Fano, who won Utah's first-ever Outland Trophy and is projected as a first-round draft pick in April.

A Toledo native who played four years as a tackle for the Rockets from 1997-2000, Harding's football roots run deep. During his playing career, he served as team captain and earned first-team All-MAC honors before being inducted into Toledo's athletic hall of fame. His coaching journey has included stops at Missouri, Wyoming, and a four-year stint as head coach at Troy High School.

Under Harding's guidance, Utah consistently produced 1,000-yard rushers in 11 of the past 12 seasons—a testament to his ability to develop elite offensive line talent. His recruiting prowess was further confirmed when 247 Sports named him Big 12 Recruiter of the Year this season.

Harding joins a rapidly expanding Michigan coaching staff under new head coach Kyle Whittingham, who has already brought several Utah assistants to Ann Arbor. These additions include offensive coordinator Jason Beck, tight ends coach Freddie Whittingham, wide receiver coach Micah Simon, and quarterbacks coach Koy Detmer Jr.

With deep Ohio connections and a proven track record of developing NFL-caliber talent, Harding represents a transformative addition to Michigan's football program. His expertise and recruiting skills signal an exciting new chapter for Wolverines football fans.