The LA Chargers' preparation for the team's upcoming NFL Playoffs game against the Houston Texans differs from expectations.
The Chargers, who practice at the team's new state-of-the-art facility The Bolt in El Segundo, are altering practice plans because of the ongoing fires in the Los Angeles area. While the fire is not a direct threat to the Chargers' practice facility, the air quality in El Segundo reached 201 on Tuesday, which is considered very unhealthy for breathing.
In response, head coach Jim Harbaugh altered the team's practice plan to limit the time the players would be outdoors. The offense and defense took to the practice field at separate times, which is not how the team's practices traditionally operate.
Justin Herbert & the #Chargers continuing their Wild Card prep for the #Texans. LA has adjusted their practice schedule to limit players time outdoors with the poor air quality from the fires. Only offense on the field during this portion. Defense to come out later. pic.twitter.com/a3U7HMUHjU
— Omar Ruiz (@OmarDRuiz) January 8, 2025
Chargers practice impacted by Los Angeles fires ahead of NFL Playoffs
Offensive coordinator Greg Roman told reporters before practice that the Chargers received a favorable report for air quality and altered rather than canceled practice on Tuesday and Wednesday. If that were to change, though, Roman said Harbaugh has both a plan A and plan B.
Defensive coordinator Jesse Minter also spoke to reporters, echoing his full faith in Harbaugh to lead the team through these mid-week adjustments.
"One thing I know about Jim Harbaugh is he's a problem solver. The best problem solver I've been around," Minter said. "I trust the process and plan he has in place."
Unfortunately, the fires are impacting those in the Chargers locker room. According to Roman, wide receivers coach Sanjay Lal's home in Calabasas has been impacted by the fires and the rolling power outages in the area.
"Last night was a really intense night for him," Roman said.
A high wind warning remains in effect in the area until 6 p.m. PT on Tuesday. The Santa Ana winds are forecasted to subside by the time the Chargers fly to Houston for Saturday's Wild-Card Round matchup.
The NFL is monitoring the fires, and the air quality, ahead of Monday night's game at Sofi Stadium between the Los Angeles Rams and Minnesota Vikings.