Mike Hart returning to Michigan as running backs coach

The Michigan Wolverines have added a big new piece to the offensive coaching staff and it comes in the form of a familiar face. According to The Michigan Insider, head coach Jim Harbaugh has hired former star running back Mike Hart to coach the same position group on his revamped staff. The news was first dropped on Wednesday by former U-M running back Jamie Morris on WTKA Radio and then confirmed by a news release by the program.

“I am excited about the addition of Mike Hart to our offensive coaching staff,” Harbaugh said. “Mike is a great coach and Michigan Man who has shown the ability to develop and elevate the performance of the running backs that he has mentored. We look forward to welcoming Mike, Monique and their children to the Michigan Football family.”

“Michigan has always held a special place in my heart,” Hart said. “It is a place that always believed in me and a place that I have always have believed in. I am excited to join Jim Harbaugh and the Michigan staff, and can’t wait to get to work with a talented running back group.”

There had been rumors floating around social media that this was a courtship that was taking place and now it appears it is official. Hart replaces Jay Harbaugh, who will move to special teams coach full-time after coaching the running backs the last few seasons.

Hart has been one of the rising names in the coaching industry for a few years with his most recent stint coming as one of Tom Allen’s top assistants at Indiana. He also spent time at Eastern Michigan, Western Michigan and Syracuse.

This story is developing.