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Why the Chargers are Wearing Special Jersey Patches Under Jim Harbaugh

If you've seen highlights or photos from recent Chargers offseason practices, perhaps you've noticed something new.

Chargers Head Coach Jim Harbaugh recently implemented special patches for players to wear on their practice jerseys to signify personal or team accomplishments.

Harbaugh on Tuesday explained why he wanted to add the extra touch to the practice jerseys.

"Like a resumé. Kind of reminds me how a [military] general has different patches," Harbaugh said.

"Some day they'll be able to put that jersey up in a frame, put it on a wall, say something really good about themselves, it will be what they accomplished as a pro football player. I like that," Harbaugh later added.

There are multiple categories that a player can get a patch for, including being a captain, making the playoffs with the Chargers or earning All-Pro honors. Each patch is represented with a logo of a certain category plus the appropriate number of Bolts they have earned.

Derwin James, Jr., for example, has a patch with three Bolts for the three playoff appearances he's made with the Chargers.

James also has a 'C' patch with four Bolts as a four-time captain, plus an All-Pro patch with four Bolts and a patch two Bolts since he's twice been a Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year nominee.

"I love it. I love everything about it," James said. "At the end of the day, this is a professional league, but when you can keep us connected and get a little bragging rights in the locker room, it's good.

"Guys want to compete for their jersey to look like that, too. It's a lot of fun," James added.

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