Jim Harbaugh Confirms Wildfires Impact on Chargers’ Plans and Voices Support for LA Fire Department

The Los Angeles Chargers are ready to battle against the Houston Texans on Saturday, January 11. However, things have changed a bit for sure. Earlier, this game was about to take place at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. But now, due to the massive wildfires, Jim Harbaugh’s team is heading to Houston at NRG Stadium for the wildcard round battle. However, that’s not the only thing that has changed. The LA team also had to make a few adjustments to their plans.

On Thursday, the Chargers had their practice session amid the ominous setting. The wildfire smoke was clearly visible in the sky of El Segundo, which is 20 miles away from the flames in Pacific Palisades. Despite this, the LA team practiced, but with some changes. Hence, during a weekly press conference on the same day, Jim Harbaugh was asked about the changes his team had to go through during the playoff practice.

To which, Harbaugh said, “We went by reducing the amount of time, (with) all the recommendations from the experts, reduce the amount of time that they were outside and reduce the intensity of the workout.” Along with this, Harbaugh’s team had to wear masks to combat the smoke-filled air.

Devastating wildfires have transformed Southern California into a fiery scene, reportedly killing five people. In addition, authorities evacuated over 100,000 people, and the massive outbreak destroyed nearly 17,000 acres. Talking about his experience, Harbaugh said, “I’ve never seen anything like this. We’re trying to stay focused, but these are extraordinary circumstances. It’s not just about football right now; it’s about making sure our guys and their families are safe.” Indeed, this is something many would have not seen in their life.

Not only this! The coach also voiced his support for LA victims and the fire department with a unique approach.

Jim Harbaugh’s hat caught all the attention!

During the same press conference, Jim Harbaugh donned a hat featuring “LAFD,” to show his support for the Los Angeles Fire Department. He even voiced his concern and empathy for the victims and their loved ones during the presser. No doubt that this tragedy has shaken our hearts, and hence, Harbaugh made sure to send off his prayers for the wildfire-impacted souls.

He praised the fire department along with the victims by saying, “Our hearts go out and abundant prayer to all that have been affected by this tragedy. Also, I’ve just been inspired greatly by the first responders, the firefighters, and the residents who have pulled together, and had each other’s back. It’s been tremendously inspiring. So, even though we’ve been on a mission…abundant prayers and thoughts to all that are in this fight. We see neighbors on top of houses helping fellow neighbors, it’s truly inspiring.” Besides him, many other NFL stars prayed for Los Angeles amid their hard times.

Nevertheless, as the wildfires have already impacted the Chargers vs Texans game, Jim Harbaugh and his team are flying to Houston for the wild card round battle at NRG Stadium.