The Jim Harbaugh era is in full swing. After capturing a national title with Michigan in 2023, the renowned coach took the helm of the Los Angeles Chargers, aiming to unlock the full potential of a talented roster. In his debut season, he made a strong start by guiding the Chargers to an 11-6 record and a playoff berth.
Now that Harbaugh has seen firsthand what his team can do, his focus has shifted. During an appearance on The Rich Eisen Show last week, he shared his new objective: to develop star quarterback Justin Herbert into a Hall of Famer.
Harbaugh and His Mission
Throughout his career, Harbaugh has gained a reputation for his energetic and expressive demeanor on the sidelines. However, off the field, he’s widely regarded as a players’ coach who builds strong relationships with his team. When discussing quarterback Justin Herbert, Harbaugh told Rich Eisen that one of his top goals is to help Herbert eventually make it to the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
“I woke up the other morning thinking, ‘I need to get Justin Herbert to the Hall of Fame. I have to make that happen,’” Harbaugh said. “Sometimes your best ideas come to you around 3:30 or 4 a.m.”
Since joining the Chargers, Harbaugh has been outspoken in his admiration for Herbert. In a November interview with Pro Football Talk, he even called Herbert one of the greatest quarterbacks ever. Under Harbaugh’s leadership in their first season together, Herbert passed for 3,870 yards, 23 touchdowns, and just three interceptions, with a completion rate of 65.9%.
Chargers Roster Revamp
For Justin Herbert to eventually reach the Hall of Fame, there’s still a long road ahead. He’ll need to win Super Bowls, earn individual honors, and lead the team to consistent success over time. Head coach Jim Harbaugh approaches his role with seriousness and intent, and he’s made it a priority to ensure Herbert is supported with the right talent.
“When you think about it, that would mean winning a few Super Bowls, which would benefit a lot of people,” Harbaugh said. “That’s a goal worth chasing, and I believe we have to surround him with players who match his caliber.”
This offseason, the Chargers have heavily invested in building around Herbert. They used their first-round draft pick on running back Omarion Hampton, followed by wide receiver Tre Harris in the second round. On day three, they added wide receiver KeAndre Lambert-Smith and tight end Oronde Gadsden II.
In free agency, key moves included trading for Najee Harris, re-signing wide receiver Mike Williams, and strengthening the offensive line with Andre James and Mekhi Becton. With their last Super Bowl appearance dating back to the 1994 season, the Chargers are making a serious push to compete for a title this year.
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