Jim Harbaugh, the head coach of the Los Angeles Chargers, is set to undergo two medical procedures in the offseason. He will have an ablation to treat an irregular heart rhythm, which he has experienced in the past, and hip replacement surgery. Harbaugh, 61, has had two previous cardiac ablations, one in 1999 and another in 2012.
The procedures will take place before Harbaugh begins plotting the Chargers’ offseason strategy with general manager Joe Hortiz. The team’s offseason plans will focus on building the roster and addressing areas of need.
Despite the team’s 11-7 record and six-win improvement from last season, Harbaugh took responsibility for the team’s 32-12 loss to the Houston Texans in the AFC wild-card round. He praised his team’s effort but acknowledged that they did not play complementary football and were not their best when it mattered most.
Quarterback Justin Herbert struggled in the loss, throwing four interceptions and completing only 14 of 32 passes. Harbaugh took responsibility for Herbert’s play, saying that the team did not put him in a position to be successful.
General manager Joe Hortiz defended Herbert, citing examples of other quarterbacks who have struggled in the playoffs. He also emphasized the importance of improving the team’s roster and addressing areas of need in the offseason.
The Chargers will have more salary cap space and more free agents to consider this offseason. They will also have to decide whether to re-sign players such as linebacker Khalil Mack and offensive tackle Rashawn Slater.
Harbaugh does not expect any significant changes to the coaching staff, but defensive coordinator Jesse Minter has been mentioned as a possible candidate for some of the league’s head coach openings.