The other arrived almost 32 years ago. That’s when 9-year-old Taylor went to his first NFL practice and game and took a photo with none other than Harbaugh. The Taylor family took a trip to Chicago to watch the Bears, then Harbaugh’s quarterbacks, take on the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Harbaugh posed for a photo with Taylor and his brother, Press, who is now the offensive coordinator of the Jacksonville Jaguars. Mysteriously one day a few years ago, when Taylor was an assistant for the Miami Dolphins and Harbaugh was the head coach of the San Francisco 49ers, the image reappeared in this residence.
This time it was signed.
“My grandfather [Bill Burkett] “I thought Jim Harbaugh needed to know that the two kids in the photo are now NFL coaches,” Taylor said. “So he kept sending it to the 49ers and got no response. I’m sure a secretary, someone, finally signed it and sent it back. And then it shows up on my doorstep in Miami.”
Other memories from that trip to Chicago included watching a Bulls game (Michael Jordan and company were in the middle of a four-game homestand) and seeing William “The Fridge” Perry riding around in a golf cart and tossing golf balls. snow to people.
The next day, Taylor watched the Bears beat the Steelers, 30-6, with Harbaugh throwing for 90 yards and a touchdown in the victory.
On Sunday, the two men will be partners. Cincinnati (4-6) will also look for a win to boost its playoff hopes.
The Bengals offense, which has been solid all season, will face a Chargers defense that Taylor knows is among the best in the NFL.
“They’re number one in most categories you look at,” Taylor said. “It’s a great test for us and our guys will be very excited for the opportunity.”
