Jim Harbaugh Celebrates NFL Players Who Share Their Faith

At 61 years of age, Los Angeles Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh exemplifies unwavering energy and enthusiasm for each day. Recently, he showcased this passion during the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis. During his interaction with the media, Harbaugh expressed his gratitude for being part of the competitive landscape.

“Blessed to be here and be able to wake up today,” Harbaugh noted. He added, “To be 61 years old, be in the middle of the competition, be in Indianapolis at the Scouting Combine, and watch guys go through some of the best times of their lives. Very thankful and much gratitude for that.”

For Harbaugh, the term blessed carries deep significance. He has embraced and openly proclaimed his Christian values throughout his career. His guiding principle — faith, family, football — shapes his life and decisions.

“Those priorities help me keep things straight in my mind if I can focus on those three,” he explained. “The best advice I’ve ever received comes from the Bible: ‘Seek first the kingdom of God, and all else will be added onto you.’ That’s the priority. That’s the game plan, and nobody pays better interest than the Lord.”

Faith at the Forefront of NFL Culture

Harbaugh’s relationship with faith parallels that of other NFL players who also openly discuss their spiritual beliefs. A notable example is Houston Texans second-year quarterback C.J. Stroud. After a playoff victory over Harbaugh’s Chargers, Stroud demonstrated his gratitude by thanking God during his postgame interview.

“First and foremost, all glory has to go to my Lord and savior, Jesus Christ,” Stroud stated. “I feel so unqualified, but the Lord has qualified me to play in this great city, this great state, and I’m just so grateful for who I serve.”

This trend continues among other prominent players like Saquon Barkley from the Philadelphia Eagles, Jayden Daniels representing the Washington Commanders, and Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas City Chiefs, all of whom have demonstrated their commitment to faith in public forums.

Harbaugh remarked on the importance of these expressions, saying, “It’s inspiring to see players openly discussing their faith.” His acknowledgment highlights the cultural shift within the league, where players champion their beliefs as a source of strength.

Community and Faith in the Chargers’ Locker Room

Within the Chargers locker room, Harbaugh emphasizes unity across various faiths. He frequently points out the contributions of players like punter J.K. Scott, whom he describes as a vital member of the team both on and off the field.

“He’s our punter, and he’s one of the best in the game. But he’s also a brother in Christ, and he serves as our team chaplain,” Harbaugh shared. He admires Scott for his character, noting, “To watch him be the kind of father, husband, and teammate he is, is truly special. Nobody has it better than us at the Chargers to have strong Christians like him on our team. It’s pretty awesome.”

Beyond the Field: A Focus on Health and Safety

This offseason, Harbaugh’s initiatives also include promoting health and safety within the team. He has partnered with Invivyd to raise awareness about the continued threat of COVID-19. While society has largely moved on from pandemic jitters, Harbaugh recognizes the lingering health risks.

Data from Invivyd reveals significant statistics, with over 656,000 COVID-19 hospitalizations recorded from October 2023 to September 2024. This number includes over 112,000 admissions to intensive care units and more than 58,000 fatalities.

“As a coach, you want to ensure that players remain in the game and are able to gather without fear,” he stated. He acknowledged the importance of addressing the ongoing conversation about COVID-19. Harbaugh remarked, “People think COVID is old news, but the facts show it’s still around, and we need to be mindful. Some are still getting sick, hospitalized, and facing severe outcomes, especially those who are immunocompromised. Talk to your doctor for guidance; that’s the bottom line.”

A Broader Message of Hope and Strength

In sharing his views on faith, family, and the challenges that come with leadership, Harbaugh not only represents the Chargers but also embodies a broader message. He inspires others to reflect on their priorities, whether they are coaches, players, or fans of the NFL.

As athletes speak about their convictions, it contributes to a culture in the league that values authenticity and vulnerability. This openness helps create an environment where everyone is encouraged to express their beliefs without fear of judgment. In this light, Harbaugh’s nurturing approach within his team aligns with the values he holds dear.

For Harbaugh, fostering a supportive and faith-driven environment proves beneficial for his players, enhancing their camaraderie and resilience. His belief in the power of faith and community extends far beyond the football field, capturing the essence of what it means to lead with purpose.