Jim Harbaugh's first training camp as the head coach of the LA Chargers has been notable thus far. Not only are the Chargers finally in their new state-of-the-art training facility in El Segundo but Harbaugh has completely changed how the team is operating during camp.
Harbaugh has won everywhere he has coached and it is not hard to see why. He is a culture shifter, someone who changes the entire identity of an organization the moment he walks into the building. This is what Chargers fans have been begging for.
Harbaugh has been pulling out all the stops in training camp. As if his motivational tactics were not enough, Harbaugh went out and summoned one of the greatest players in franchise history to motivate the team on Tuesday.
Hall of Fame running back LaDainian Tomlinson was at Chargers practice on Tuesday to speak with the team and hopefully rub off some of his excellence.
Former Chargers RB LaDainian Tomlinson gave a pre-practice speech to the team. pic.twitter.com/C5UlCK7ipY
— Fernando Ramirez (@RealFRamirez) July 30, 2024
Jim Harbaugh brings LaDainian Tomlinson out to Chargers training camp
There is no one better Harbaugh could have brought out to send a message to his locker room than Tomlinson. As the greatest offensive player in Chargers history, Tomlinson knows what it takes to be successful both at an individual level and at the team level.
In addition to having one of the most impressive resumes of any running back, Tomlinson also played for the greatest team in Chargers history. While they could not get it done in the playoffs, the 2006 Chargers still remain the best team the franchise has ever assembled.
This is perfectly on brand for Harbaugh to bring out a beloved legend to send a message to his team. Any bit of motivation ia beneficial and any tips Tomlinson can share will undoubtedly be apppreciated.
This goes hand in hand with how Harbaugh has operated with the Chargers thus far. Harbaugh hired another Chargers legend, Nick Hardwick, as an offensive line coach this offseason. He also brought in former 49ers linebacker NaVorro Bowman as the linebackers coach.
Former Pro Bowl tight end Delanie Walker and former Pro Bowl offensive lineman Mike Iupati are also with the team during training camp on coaching apprenticeships.
It is clear Harbaugh is trying to add legacy to the Chargers locker room to help the team and organization turn a corner culture-wise in 2024. Having Tomlinson come out and be a part of that process, even if it is small, will pay off.