The Chargers have sent a number of players to the blue injury tent this year. But on Sunday, head coach Jim Harbaugh made a surprise visit to the tent.
Just minutes after kickoff, Harbaugh left the sideline and ran to the tent to be tested. He was then seen heading to the locker room for further testing. During this time, defensive coordinator Jesse Minter handled coaching duties.
The Chargers listed Harbaugh as doubtful to return due to an undisclosed illness.
Under Minter's guidance, the Chargers took the field and scored a field goal on their first drive.
Minter's coaching didn't last long, however, as Harbaugh was seen heading to the sideline shortly after.
After the game, Harbaugh told reporters he had heart-related issues.
“It's called atrial flutter” Harbaugh said. “I went into an episode today. The doctor checked me and I'm back to normal sinus rhythm.”
According to Pro Football Talk, “Harbaugh said there were two other similar episodes, one in 1999 and one on Monday Night Football in 2012 when he was coaching the 49ers. He had heart surgery in 2012 to address the problem, and Harbaugh said he would see a cardiologist on Monday after it relapsed.
Despite a rough and strange start, the Chargers got a much-needed win, defeating the Broncos 23-16 and ending a two-game losing streak.
