El Segundo, California — Jim Harbaugh’s coaching approach emphasizes physical play on both offense and defense, with a focus on overpowering opponents. Yet, when it comes to his relationship with players, he fosters an atmosphere of love, respect, and admiration.
Harbaugh has once again showcased his ability to transform a team, as seen during his tenures with the San Francisco 49ers and the University of Michigan. This time, he’s made a significant impact on the Los Angeles Chargers, leading them to an impressive 11-6 record this season—marking a notable six-win increase—which secures their place in the playoffs. The Chargers are set to face the Houston Texans in the AFC wild-card round on Saturday.
“I adapt my personality to match the team dynamics,” Harbaugh shared during the season. “I instantly connected with Derwin James’s passion for football, admired Khalil Mack’s humble leadership, and was inspired by Justin Herbert. The grit, determination, and confidence exhibited by our players are qualities I strive to embody in my daily life; it’s truly contagious.”
From the start, Harbaugh made a lasting impression on his players. He joined them in conditioning drills during off-season practices and personalized their locker spaces by adding their hometowns and recruiting rankings to nameplates, recognizing the unique journeys each player took to reach the NFL.
Before the season opener against the Las Vegas Raiders on September 8, Harbaugh gifted his players blue-collar work shirts, complete with an embroidered name patch and the Chargers’ lightning bolt logo. These shirts were reminiscent of those worn by service station attendants and mechanics. Harbaugh mentioned that this gesture pays tribute to his grandfather, Joe Cipiti, who worked in service stations and taught car mechanics at a trade school in Cleveland, while also honoring the hardworking family members of his players.
“I felt like this gesture unified the team significantly. Growing up, I saw so many hard workers in our community who wore nameplates, symbolizing their identity and effort,” James noted. “Having that recognition means a lot to us.”
As the season progressed, Harbaugh continued to motivate his team with thoughtful gifts. Following a narrow 17-13 win over the Falcons on December 1, players received personalized black metal lunch pails bearing their names and the word “stalwart,” a term Harbaugh cherishes. He also provided sweatshirts commemorating key victories, like the 34-27 win against the Bengals and the 40-7 triumph over the New England Patriots, which secured a playoff berth.
James emphasized that while some may view these gifts as cliché, they play an essential role in cultivating the team’s culture. “We wouldn’t have made it to the postseason without the attention to detail and the little things we’ve done,” he expressed.
Greg Roman, the offensive coordinator who previously worked with Harbaugh at Stanford and San Francisco, believes Harbaugh has grown significantly in his ability to connect with players by sharing his own experiences from both playing and coaching. Roman noted that sharing stories from Harbaugh’s 15-year playing career and various coaching stints provides invaluable perspective at different points in the season.
The anecdotes Harbaugh shares resonate deeply with his players. They fondly recall a story he told about the day of his birth coinciding with the first day of training camp being one of their favorites.
“The dynamic can shift based on the team’s mood, recent outcomes, and where we are in the season,” Roman stated. “Harbaugh’s storytelling creates a meaningful perspective that helps unify the team around a shared vision, rather than just reading from a PowerPoint presentation.”
Quarterback Justin Herbert is a player significantly influenced by Harbaugh. The coach has been a steadfast supporter since his hiring, even participating in pregame warm-ups by catching passes from Herbert.
“The insights we’ve gained from him are immeasurable,” Herbert remarked. “It’s rewarding to learn from him and apply that knowledge on the field.”
NaVorro Bowman, a former player under Harbaugh in San Francisco, has gained a greater appreciation for him since joining the coaching staff with the Chargers. He recognized Harbaugh’s fervor for football firsthand.
“I always knew he loved the game, but now I see how dedicated he is to maximizing every moment,” Bowman reflected. “His work ethic is what truly defines his success in coaching.”
Bowman also noted similarities between the current Chargers team and the 2011 49ers squad that transformed from a 6-10 record to a 13-3 finish, making it to the NFC Championship game.
“Nobody anticipated our current success. It has only been possible because we treat each other with mutual respect, value personal boundaries, and are committed to hard work,” he concluded.
