Michigan Football News: Why Jim Harbaugh Is Not The Honorary Captain for Wolverines Matchup vs. Fresno State

Jim Harbaugh will not be attending Michigan football's season opener against Fresno State. The former head coach was set to return as the honorary captain, but he backed out of the invitation shortly after the NCAA announced penalties related to a recruiting violation during his tenure.

Harbaugh's decision to withdraw was made public on August 13, just days after the NCAA's findings were released. The investigation resulted in a one-year suspension for Harbaugh if he chooses to return to college football, along with a four-year show-cause order.

"Yesterday he called me and told me he didn't feel he could leave his team in true coach Harbaugh fashion and wanted to be in the fox hole with his team, not make it look like he's taking a deep long bow," Wolverines head coach Sherrone Moore said. "So he's not going to make it for the game, but we will have some of our (former players) guys who will be there and then Jack and Jackie Harbaugh are going to take his place, so super excited about that."

The backlash surrounding his potential return to Michigan, given the recent NCAA findings, contributed to his decision. Instead of Harbaugh, former players and his parents will represent him at the game.

Related: Michigan Football News: Moore's Contract Still in Limbo as Season Opener Approaches

As Michigan prepares to kick off a new era under head coach Sherrone Moore, the team will still honor last season's national championship squad during the home opener. Harbaugh's absence marks a significant moment as the Wolverines transition into this new chapter.