San Francisco 49ers and Jim Harbaugh Part Ways

As expected, the San Francisco 49ers and coach Jim Harbaugh have mutually agreed to part ways. The announcement was made after the Niners beat the Arizona Cardinals 20-17.

"Jim and I have come to the conclusion that it is in our mutual best interest to move in different directions," CEO Jed York said in the statement. "We thank Jim for bringing a tremendous competitive nature and a great passion for the game to the 49ers. He and his staff restored a winning culture that has been the standard for our franchise throughout its history. Their commitment and hard work resulted in a period of success that should be looked back on proudly by our organization and our fans. We wish Jim and his family all the best."

The Niners went 44-22-1 in four seasons including the playoffs under Harbaugh. In his first three years with the team. Harbaugh led them to three consecutive NFC Championship Games. They also reached Superbowl XLVII, but were defeated by the Baltimore Ravens, who are coached by Harbaugh's brother, John. This is the first season that the Niners (8-8) have missed the playoffs under the Harbaugh era.

Despite his success with the team, Harbaugh has clashed frequently with team management.

"This has been the time of my life, [like] that song," Harbaugh said in a short news conference after Sunday's vicotry before the split was announced. "I did. I really did. I had a lot of fun. It's the relationships that were made along the way. That's what a team is. And I appreciate the fans, the people of the Bay Area, the 49er Faithful. All the good times that we've had. I think it's been really good and fantastic. Players, coaches, staff, friends for life."

Over the course of this season, Harbaugh has been linked to many different coaching positions. The latest rumors suggest that Harbaugh could be making the short trip to coach for the Oakland Raiders or leaving the NFL to head to his Alma Mater, the University of Michigan.

York and general manager Trent Baalke will hold a news conference at 1 p.m. PT on Monday.