During Jim Harbaugh's entertaining career as an NFL quarterback, his two-year swan song with the San Diego Chargers from 1999 to 2000 isn't recalled as a high point. His friendship with teammate Junior Seau is a different story.
When the San Francisco 49ers coach learned of Seau's death Wednesday, he was quick to remember the linebacker for more than his work on the field.
"I am saddened that I was not there for Junior as he had always been for his teammates and friends," Harbaugh said in a statement on the 49ers' official website.
"The qualities I most respected in Junior were the caring and respect he showed to all those with whom he came in contact. One of my fondest remembrances as a professional football player was looking across the locker room after playing my last career game with the Chargers and knowing that I had shared that moment with one of the greatest teammates and competitors the game has ever known. The moment moved me to get off my stool, approach Junior and ask him to trade jerseys. It's the only time I had done that in my career. My thoughts and prayers go out to Junior's family."
Reaction to Seau's death continues to pour in from around the NFL. Former teammates, coaches and football people appear to be in unison about their experiences with Seau.
We all saw what he did on the field, and those heroics point to a Hall of Fame induction in due time. Of greater importance, we are learning more and more about Seau's impact far away from the bright lights, where he will not be forgotten.
