Los Angeles Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh is looking forward to collaborating with general manager Joe Hortiz to devise an effective offseason strategy. However, plans will be temporarily interrupted as Harbaugh prepares to undergo two medical procedures: an ablation to address an irregular heart rhythm and hip replacement surgery.
In his end-of-season remarks on Wednesday, Harbaugh revealed that he experienced an irregular heartbeat during the Chargers’ 23-16 victory against the Denver Broncos on October 13. During the game, he briefly entered the medical tent before returning to the locker room, where medical staff monitored his condition and administered treatment. Following an EKG that confirmed his heart had returned to normal, Harbaugh continued coaching. The 61-year-old coach disclosed that he has been managing atrial flutter for several years, which can cause rapid heartbeats. This upcoming procedure will mark Harbaugh’s third cardiac ablation, following similar surgeries in 1999 and 2012.
Despite a disappointing 32-12 loss to the Houston Texans in the AFC wild-card playoff round, Harbaugh expressed pride in his team’s overall performance this season, which concluded with an 11-7 record. He acknowledged that the team did not perform at its best during the playoff game, emphasizing his responsibility for their struggles. Quarterback Justin Herbert faced challenges in the game, throwing four interceptions and posting career lows in passer rating and completion percentage. Harbaugh took accountability for Herbert’s performance, stating, “We did him a disservice and didn’t put him in a position to be successful.” Looking ahead, Harbaugh and Hortiz are tasked with enhancing the roster during the offseason, with the Chargers enjoying more salary cap space and a number of free agents to consider, including key contributors from the past season.
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