Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Chargers Announce Jim Harbaugh Decision on Wednesday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Chris Phelps | Last updated Oct 29, 2025 9:46 PM ET

Jim Harbaugh and the Los Angeles Chargers got back on track in Week 8, jumping to 5-3 on the 2025 NFL season after defeating Carson Wentz and the Minnesota Vikings 37-10. Now, Harbaugh and the Chargers will look to make it two straight when they hit the road to face Cam Ward, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, and the Tennessee Titans.

After leading the Michigan Wolverines to a national championship in 2024, Harbaugh joined the Chargers last season, guiding them to an 11-5 record and a playoff berth. This year, he’s looking to take them even further, backed by one of the league’s top offenses. Led by Justin Herbert, the Chargers rank fourth in the NFL in both total yards per game (378.5) and passing yards per game (255.4).

Los Angeles Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh looks on during a game.Kyle Terada-Imagn Images

But on Wednesday, the Chargers recognized Harbaugh for his off-field contributions, naming him their nominee for the 2025 Salute to Service Award. The annual honor, with one nomination from each team, “recognizes NFL players, coaches, staff, and alumni who make exceptional efforts to honor and support military and veteran communities.” Harbaugh earned the nomination for the following initiatives:

Welcomed TAPS families to practices and Gold Star families to games.
Brought the Chargers to military bases and naval carriers to engage directly with service members.
Led a minicamp at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, hosting over 5,000 service members and families.
Organized an NFL Play60 event for 100+ military children featuring football drills and activities.
Visited the Navy SEALs’ Silver Strand Training Complex in Coronado with team leaders

The Chargers announced Harbaugh’s nomination on social media, even bringing in active-duty service members from the Los Angeles Air Force Base to help surprise the coach with the news. Fans can also start voting for the award finalists.

"big salute to coach ," the Chargers wrote on X.