Another prominent figure in the NFL has been caught using Zyn nicotine pouches on the sideline during a game. After Baker Mayfield made headlines for being seen with the pouches, Los Angeles Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh has now been spotted doing the same. TikTok user Nick Arias captured the moment that Harbaugh discreetly opened a pack of Zyns and popped one in his mouth during a recent game.
The video quickly went viral, amassing over 900,000 views on TikTok, as fans reacted to seeing the head coach indulging in the prohibited product.
Despite Harbaugh technically breaking NFL rules, fans seemed to embrace the viral moment with enthusiasm. Comments on the TikTok video showcased a mix of humor and support.
“That’s my coach!” one fan proudly commented.
Another fan joked, “NFL gonna be bathing in nicotine fines shortly.”
A third fan added, “You know he was locked in, though.”
“That’s my coach! Bolt Up with a Zyn!!!” said yet another supportive fan.
And another cleverly dubbed Harbaugh as “Zyn Harbaugh.”
Baker Mayfield was similarly caught using Zyn pouches during Week 7 of the season, which sparked conversations about whether players could face repercussions for using nicotine products on the sidelines.
According to NFL rules, the use of tobacco or nicotine on the sidelines is strictly prohibited. However, it appears unlikely that either Mayfield or Harbaugh will face any significant fines or penalties for their actions.
Fox reporter Greg Auman addressed the incident involving Mayfield, saying, “Some of you have asked about Baker Mayfield being shown on camera Monday night putting nicotine pouches in his mouth on the sidelines. NFL policy is no tobacco products in the playing area, but such a violation would typically only result in a warning letter as a reminder.”
Although Mayfield and Harbaugh were technically breaking the rules, the NFL’s response seems to be lenient, and many fans seem more amused than outraged. In fact, it seems the pouches have added an extra layer of relatability to both men, portraying them as just like anyone else—fallible and human.
The company that manufactures Zyn, Swedish Match, also weighed in on the situation. While acknowledging their appreciation for loyal consumers, they made it clear that they discourage product use in settings where it could be seen by individuals under 21. “Swedish Match appreciates its loyal consumers and encourages them not to show the product in any situation where someone under 21 years old could see it,” a Zyn spokesperson told TMZ. “The product is marketed only to current nicotine consumers 21 years old and over as a better alternative to continued smoking and other traditional tobacco products.”
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The lightheartedness of the Zyn incidents has provided a humorous subplot during an otherwise serious NFL season. Harbaugh and Mayfield have both had notable seasons thus far, and many are hoping that Zyns aren’t the secret to their success.
Jim Harbaugh, in his first year as head coach of the Los Angeles Chargers, has managed to lead his team to a respectable 4-3 record, putting them in a position to contend for a playoff spot. The Chargers have been showing improvement under Harbaugh’s leadership, and their recent wins have kept them in the hunt for a postseason berth.
Baker Mayfield, on the other hand, has enjoyed a remarkable resurgence this season.
The Buccaneers quarterback has been one of the top passers in the NFL, racking up 2,189 passing yards, 21 touchdowns, and nine interceptions so far. Despite Mayfield’s strong individual performance, the Buccaneers are currently sitting at a 4-4 record, struggling to find consistent success as a team.
Both Harbaugh and Mayfield are set to continue their pursuit of success in Week 9, with fans hoping they can maintain their momentum—ideally without the need for a nicotine boost on the sidelines.
The Chargers and Buccaneers each have their sights set on climbing the standings, and their fans will be watching closely as they head into crucial matchups this weekend. Whether or not Zyns have played any part in their respective performances, there’s no denying that these sideline moments have added an extra layer of intrigue to their seasons.