Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh on Thursday said his daughter Grace’s home had to be evacuated.
“Heart goes out and abundant prayers to all those that have been affected by this tragedy,” Harbaugh said, while donning a Los Angeles Fire Department hat. “Also, just been inspired greatly by the first responders, the firefighters and the residents that have pulled together, had each other’s back. It’s been tremendously inspiring.
“So, even though we’ve been on-mission … abundant prayers and thoughts to all that are in this fight. You see neighbors on top of houses helping fellow neighbors, it’s truly inspiring.”
The Chargers practice in El Segundo. With plumes of smoke taking over the skies throughout the SoCal region, air quality is a concern. Players at Chargers practice were seen taking part in Thursday’s session wearing masks.
Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell, who was McVay’s offensive coordinator from 2020-2021, offered his thoughts on the arduous situation.
“Just wanted to express my and our organizational sadness for those affected by the devastating fires in Los Angeles,” O’Connell said on Thursday. “You feel helpless watching it from here and you know how many people are being impacted. Definitely, Southern California, I hold near and dear to my heart. I have some friends that have lost homes and you just think about the impact it has on so many folks. Our prayers are with all those impacted and definitely with the brave first responders that are putting their lives on the line and working 24-hour shifts to try to help put this thing to end, which is on all our minds as we watch some of those things from afar.”
O’Connell said he was unaware of any time table for a final decision on Monday’s playoff game, but his approach was readiness no matter the location.
“To me, it’s just a matter of logistics that are out of my hands,” he said. “Like I said, there’s a lot of really smart people, people that will make that decision, and we’ll just go play the game wherever it’s gonna be. Obviously, all of that is centered around some pretty deep concern for the folks – both personally that I know and everybody impacted, for sure.”