There were excuses on the table for the lack of success under Roman, especially an offensive line that lost both Pro Bowl offensive tackles, going through 29 starting combinations, and a backfield that dealt with injuries. However, Harbaugh refused to rely on those reasons to reinstate his OC, noting that playoff success is the deciding factor.
“There were a lot of things that were done well, a lot of things that were done very well,” Harbaugh said. “Many [offensive] line combinations, it was true. It was very difficult, very difficult. The NFL is unforgiving, it’s unfair, it’s tough, it’s the nature of the business.
“Whatever we feel is a strategy that’s going to make us better, we’re always looking for that. “Whether it’s with players, coaches, myself included. This is a results-oriented company.”
Harbaugh and Roman enjoyed success in their first run with the 49ers (2011-2014), but the league has changed a lot since then and the Chargers offense needs a new voice to bring Justin Herbert and crew to the next level.
“It starts with Justin. The respect, the people that want to work with him that have the same urgency that we have, I think it’s genuine that they see it the same way,” Harbaugh said. “Justin is as good, as smart as they come. I have no questions about his ability as a player. He’s not looking to be a GM or a coach. It’s our responsibility to put him in the best position possible.”
With Roman out and defensive backs coach Jesse Minter a hot head coaching candidate, Harbaugh is likely looking to backup leaders on both sides of the ball this season.