Los Angeles Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh briefly left the sideline during Sunday’s 23-16 win over the Denver Broncos after experiencing an episode of “atrial flutter,” a heart rhythm issue. Harbaugh disclosed the incident during his postgame press conference, as reported by Alex Insdorf of Bolt Beat.
Harbaugh, who appeared calm when discussing the matter, revealed that this wasn’t the first time he had dealt with such an episode.
He recalled a similar occurrence during a Monday Night Football game when he was coaching the San Francisco 49ers. “I’m 2-0 with arrhythmias,” Harbaugh joked to reporters, downplaying the scare with his characteristic humor.
The episode prompted a medical evaluation in the sideline tent, after which Harbaugh was taken to the locker room for further assessment. Despite the brief disruption, Harbaugh returned to the sideline before the end of the first quarter, resuming his coaching duties. In his absence, defensive coordinator Jesse Minter stepped in as the interim head coach to guide the team.
RELATED: Colin Kaepernick Suggests Jim Harbaugh Misled Him About Coaching Offer with the Chargers
Harbaugh’s health episode comes in his first season with the Chargers after an impressive nine-year tenure at the University of Michigan, where he led the Wolverines to a national championship in 2023. Known for his resilience both on and off the field, the 60-year-old coach has enjoyed considerable success at the NFL level.
He currently boasts a 47-21-1 record as an NFL head coach, a record built during his time with both the Chargers and the 49ers.
While Harbaugh’s brief absence was concerning, he seemed in good spirits afterward, assuring fans and the media that he felt fine and was ready to continue leading the Chargers as they aim for a successful season.
