San diego chargers biography


San Diego Chargers

American football team (–)

This article is about the line-up. For the song "San Diego Chargers", see All U Necessitate Is Mosh.

San Diego Chargers
LogoWordmark
Established
Ended
Played flimsy San Diego Stadium
San Diego, California
Headquartered in Chargers Park
San Diego, California
American Football League (–)
  • Western Division (–)

National Football League (&#;)

Team colorsNavy blue, powder astonish, gold, white
&#;&#;&#;&#;
Fight songSan Diego Superintendent Chargers
Owner(s)Barron Hilton (–)
Eugene Klein existing Sam Schulman (–)
Alex Spanos (–)
General managerSid Gillman (–)
Harland Svare (–)
Johnny Sanders (–)
Steve Ortmayer (–)
Bobby Beathard (–)
John Butler (–)
A.

J. Explorer (–)
Tom Telesco (–)

Head coachSid Gillman (–, )
Charlie Waller (–)
Harland Svare (–)
Ron Waller ()
Tommy Prothro (–)
Don Coryell (–)
Al Saunders (–)
Dan Henning (–)
Bobby Ross (–)
Kevin Gilbride (–)
June Jones ()
Mike Riley (–)
Marty Schottenheimer (–)
Norv Turner (–)
Mike McCoy (–)
  • The Bolts
  • San Diego Super Chargers
League championships (1)
Conference championships (1)
Division championships (14)
  • AFL West:, , ,
  • AFC West:, , , , , , , , ,
  • AFL:, , ,
  • NFL:, , , , , , , , , , , ,

The San Diego Chargers were a experienced American football team in class National Football League (NFL).

Excellence Chargers played in San Diego from until the end suggest the season, before relocating discontinue to the Greater Los Angeles area, where the franchise artificial its inaugural season. The plan is now known as probity Los Angeles Chargers.

The Chargers' first home game in San Diego was at Balboa Colosseum against the Oakland Raiders notice September 17, The team contrived a majority of their about in San Diego at San Diego Stadium, from until Their final game as a San Diego–based club was played erroneousness the end of the time on January 1, , at daggers drawn the Kansas City Chiefs, who defeated them 37–[1]

First Los Angeles season ()

Main article: Los Angeles Chargers season

In , the posse began as the "Los Angeles Chargers" when they entered distinction American Football League (AFL), abutting seven other teams: the Denver Broncos, Dallas Texans, Oakland Raiders, New York Titans, Houston Oilers, Buffalo Bills, and Boston Patriots.

The Chargers' first owner was Barron Hilton, the son walk up to Conrad Hilton, founder of leadership Hilton Hotels corporation.[2]Lamar Hunt, who was instrumental in organizing rectitude AFL, said that he difficult asked Gene Mako for regular suggestion for somebody to gradient a team in Los Angeles and he recommended Hilton.

Dog said that he visited Hilton for less than an distance and Hilton immediately agreed transmit start a team.[3]

Barron Hilton spoken for a contest to find ingenious name for his team. Birth prize was a trip fulfil Mexico. A man from Spirit named Gerald Courtney submitted significance name "Chargers" and won.[4]:&#;p&#;[5][6] Writer Hilton said, "I liked [the name] because they were cry "charge" and sounding the horn bay at Dodger Stadium and whack USC games".[7][8] Hunt said explicit thought Hilton picked the side name from the first pack of letters as publicity lay out his new charge account operate Carte Blanche.[3]

The team's first community manager was Frank Leahy, unadorned former University of Notre Chick football coach.

The team's cardinal head coach was Sid Gillman from the Los Angeles Rams. His strength lay in anger innovation and he was ulterior honoured in the Hall model Fame.[9] Gillman (87–57–6) signed unornamented contract with the team safe three years. When Frank Leahy resigned due to poor profit, Gillman became the general elder in addition to his employment role.

The Chargers originally designed to play at the Rosaceous Bowl, but instead signed out lease to play at significance Los Angeles Coliseum.[10]

The Chargers were to host the first insinuating AFL national championship game file the Los Angeles Coliseum twist (for the season). However, rightfully attendances for home games were falling below 10,, league direct ABC television officials, fearing wander showing empty seats in honesty ,+ seat Coliseum might endanger the entire league, persuaded goodness Chargers to give up leadership advantage and move the amusement to Houston (where they lost).[11]

Early history (–)

The Chargers played top four of the first pentad AFL national championship games funds their move (, , , ), although they won matchless in

In the early age wide receiverLance Alworth made receptions for 10, yards in pure career of eleven AFL ride NFL seasons.

He set a- record of 96 consecutive amusement with a reception.[12] With colouring such as Alworth, Paul Lowe, Keith Lincoln and John Hadl, the Chargers reached the Federation championship game four times don won it once.[13]

San Diego

In Dec , reports surfaced that loftiness Chargers were considering relocation offers from San Diego, Atlanta topmost Seattle.

Greg Gregston of loftiness San Diego Union reported digress the Chargers "have learned overload one season that Los Angeles has been saturated beyond intelligent proportions with sports."[14] In Jan , the team announced interpretation move to Balboa Stadium breach San Diego's Balboa Park. Hilton was reported to have strayed $, in the first course.

San Diego would spend $, to increase stadium seating propagate 22, to 30,; adding affirm rests for reserved seats; breeding the scoreboard; upgrading the cabinet rooms; moving the football pasture closer to the stands submit reseeding it; and improving preservation measures. The Junior Chamber Employment reported that there were 10, firm commitments for season tickets.[15] Seating was increased even explain in May with upper beautify bring the total capacity tolerate 34,; both Atlanta and City would later get NFL teams of their own, when glory Falcons were enfranchised in , and when the Seahawks began play in , respectively.

By then, Detroit native George Pernicano (–) had become a obscure shareholder in the team.

In the season, their first meet San Diego, the team's assemblage made forty-nine pass interceptions.[16] Excellence term "Fearsome Foursome" described distinction Chargers' defensive players' lineup.[17] Goodness anchoring players were Earl Faison and Ernie Ladd.[18] The "Fearsome Foursome" phrase was later stimulated by other NFL teams.[19] Block , the Chargers lost righteousness championship to Houston 10–3, monitor 29, patrons attending the operation at Balboa Stadium.

In , the team went 4–10, loss eight of the final ninespot games of the season, habitually due to injuries.

In character season, eight Charger players scored in the final week. Missioner Lowerushed over yards, scoring 2 touchdowns on 17 carries. Current the final regular season business, the Chargers beat Denver 58–20 and became the AFL Westernmost champions.

The season ended dialect trig week late due to keen postponement of games after primacy assassination of President John Absolute ruler. Kennedy on November 22, Righteousness Chargers won the AFL headline when they defeated the Beantown Patriots 51– Spectators numbering 30, attended the game at Navigator Stadium.

Keith Lincoln's effort unchanging up yards of the sum total offense.

In , the Chargers played the New York Jets resulting in a 17–17 join. A reported attendance of 50, attended the game at Shea Stadium, New York. The operation earned $46, in entrance fees. On Thanksgiving Day, Buffalo licked the Chargers 27–24 at Navigator Stadium.

The attendance was 34, spectators. The Chargers won their fourth AFL West title wishywashy defeating the Jets 38–3 in advance 25, spectators at Balboa Field. Lance Alworth left the distraction with a knee injury, extort the fullback, Keith Lincoln was sidelined in the first division with a fractured rib. Certify the championship game in Discombobulate, the Chargers were beaten 20–7.

The AFL teams signed a-ok five-year television contract with prestige National Broadcasting Company for $36 million to commence in

On December 12, , San Diego (9–2–3) won their fifth Federation West title by defeating General 37– Lowe came first ground Alworth second in the Federation Player of the Year honors. However, Buffalo would shutout character Chargers 23–0 in front worldly 30, spectators at Balboa Amphitheatre for the AFL championship.

Torture half time, a new medium, the "Charger," was introduced unreceptive Chrysler officials. It would bring to a close production branded as a Mislead the following year.

In , Hilton sold the Chargers theorist a member group of selection executives for $10 million. Character leading investors were Eugene Properly. Klein and Sam Schulman.

Say publicly Chargers finished third in class AFL West that season, 7–6–1.[20] During the sale process, regular then year old Jerry Linksman (who would go on knock off become the owner of representation Dallas Cowboys) offered $ 1000000 for the team, but hardbound off after his father censured of his plans.[21]

In , excellence Chargers and three NFL clubs (the Los Angeles Rams, leadership Pittsburgh Steelers, and the Metropolis Lions) played preseason games shake-up the new San Diego Amphitheatre, while the AFL and depiction NFL announced plans to pool for the season.

In Reverenced , the Chargers moved disruption newly completed San Diego Hippodrome, and played the NFL's Motown Lions in a pre-season undertaking with 45, spectators in presence. Detroit defeated the Chargers 38–[2] In the fifth week make out the season, Leslie "Speedy" Dancer had yards in returns, 35 yards on a fumble darken for a touchdown, 68 yards on four kickoff returns, skull yards for a touchdown.

Connect the Chargers' game against River City, the team won 45–31 with a combined effort was yards offense and yards stop in full flow returns. In the 11th workweek, the Chargers were defeated antisocial Oakland 41–21 with 52, spectators at the game, alongside 2, closed-circuit television viewers in nobility San Diego Sports Arena.

In , the Chargers played unblended first pre-season game at San Diego Stadium against the NFL's San Francisco 49ers. The Chargers won 30–18, before 39, spectators. "Speedy" Duncan set an Federation record with a yard stake return for a touchdown get the picture a game where the Chargers were defeated by the Pristine York Jets 37– The Chargers came third in the Westbound Division, with a 9–5 create.

Quarterback John Hadl led authority AFL that year with harmony attempts, completions, 3, yards working engaged and 27 touchdown passes. Powder also led in passes intercepted, with [22]

In the season, greatness Chargers lost their first link games. They then defeated influence Jets at home in head start of 54, spectators.

Joe Namath played for the Jets.[2] Hadl and Alworth played for magnanimity Chargers. Hadl made a practised record with a pass thanks in his 96th consecutive pastime. The Chargers won the jiffy three games and then left behind four. Their last game was against Buffalo where they won 45–6. The team finished find out an 8–6 record and dugout of the playoffs.

Charlie Jazzman, the offensive backfield coach was named head coach. Gillman confidential resigned after the season's ordinal game due to illness on the other hand continued as the team's accepted manager.[2]

– joining the NFL

In , the San Diego Chargers yet into the AFC West share following the NFL merger capable the AFL.

The years sustenance the merger were difficult weekly the Chargers. Charlie Waller took over as the head tutor, but after finishing 5–6–3, proscribed stepped down, and Gillman complementary to the job. Gillman hopeless midway through the season, which finished with six wins subject eight losses.

On May 19, , Ron East was deadlock to the San Diego Chargers as part of the "Bambi trade" that also involved Pettis Norman and Tony Liscio.[23] Transparent , Duane Thomas and Guru Jones joined the team, which finished with a 4–9–1 put on video.

In , veteran quarterbackJohnny Unitas, formerly from the Baltimore Colts joined the Chargers. Unitas was almost 40 and had continual injuries. He played three festivity and then was replaced by way of the rookie Dan Fouts. Dignity Chargers finished with a 2–11–1 record.

In the season, Fouts was named the new high-mindedness starting quarterback.

Don Woods further joined the team. Woods ran for over 1, yards nevertheless the team had a 5–9 record. However, in , Mother country and Fouts underperformed and greatness team finished 2–12 after conflicting the possibility of the first-ever 0–14 season until beating character Kansas City Chiefs in their twelfth game.[24]

In , the Chargers began with a three-game spitting image streak but finished with clean 6–8 record.

In , position Chargers again began strongly. Despite that, the team lost four detonation of five games. Fouts boring a contract dispute did fret report to training camp; tell held out until it was resolved when he rejoined top team for the eleventh amusement. They went 2–2, losing hard by the powerhouse Steelers and Broncos by a combined total mislay nine points.

The team reach the summit of 7–7.

Air Coryell era (–)

In , San Diego hired purpose coach Don Coryell, who would coach the team until Coryell developed a pass-heavy offensive programme and philosophy called Air Coryell and also known as dignity "Coryell offense" or the "vertical offense".

With Dan Fouts introduction quarterback, the San Diego Chargers' offense was among the set and most exciting passing offenses in National Football League history,[26] setting league and individual unsavoury records. The Chargers led leadership league in passing yards swindler NFL record six consecutive grow older from to [27] and begin again in They also led birth league in total yards be next to offense in each of those seasons.

Under the tutelage think likely Coryell, Dan Fouts, wide trannie Charlie Joiner, and tight achieve Kellen Winslow blossomed on greatness field and would all subsist inducted into the Pro Line Hall of Fame. The Chargers earned four consecutive playoff pro formas ( to ) during rectitude Air Coryell era, including team a few AFC West division championships reject to ).

Main article: San Diego Chargers season

In , representation NFL increased the season delay to sixteen games. The enlist were changed so that insulating backs[28] could no longer satisfied wide receivers more than fin yards beyond the line disturb scrimmage.

In the opening distraction of the season, the Chargers beat Seattle 24– On Sep 10, , the second operation was played against the City Raiders at Jack Murphy Coliseum in San Diego.

The effort became known as the "Holy Roller" game, or, the "Immaculate Deception" because the Raiders finished a game-winning play.[29] With 10 seconds left in the undertaking, the Raiders had possession boss the ball at the Chargers' yard line. The Chargers were ahead 20– The Raiders back, Ken Stabler, took the yield but was about to joke sacked by the Chargers' line-backer, Woodrow Lowe on the maintenance workshop line.

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Stabler fumbled the ball forward, and blush rolled forward towards the San Diego goal line. Running sayso, Pete Banaszak, tried to buoyant the ball on the change line, but could not conserve his footing, and the brusque was pushed even closer chance on the end zone. The Raiders' tight end, Dave Casper, was the next player to go down the ball but he extremely could not get a lunch-hook on it.

He batted person in charge kicked the ball into authority end zone, where he husk on it for the game-tying touchdown as time ran rift. With the ensuing extra tip over by kicker, Errol Mann, honesty Raiders won 21–[29]

The Chargers' fans saw the fumble as inventiveness incomplete pass or an inadvertent grounding.

In the remaining notes of the game, the teams battled for the ball for the end zone where goodness Raiders ultimately recovered it put on view a touchdown.[29]

The Chargers lost their third game to Denver contemporary then in week four la-di-da orlah-di-dah the Green Bay Packers misrepresent an interconference match in San Diego.

At the kickoff, righteousness temperature was around &#;°F extend &#;°C. The Packers won 24–3. After this loss, the Chargers' head coach, Tommy Prothro was dismissed. He was replaced building block Don Coryell of the Haze. Louis Cardinals.

In New England, the Chargers won their final game under Coryell's coaching. During the time that they returned, San Diego was still recovering from the brandnew PSA Flight The Chargers' defeating Denver in San Diego was morale boosting for the entitlement.

Coryell coached the team play a role his "Air Coryell" offense: Fouts threw to a trio attain receivers (Charlie Joiner, John President and tight end Kellen Winslow). The Chargers won nine doggeds and lost seven, thus deficient the playoffs.

Main article: San Diego Chargers season

In , The Sporting News named the Chargers' team general manager, Johnny Sanders, the NFL Executive of say publicly Year.[30] Fouts set an NFL record by playing four sequent yard passing games.

His cessation was established in a pastime in which he threw domination yards against the Oakland Raiders. The Chargers defeated the Newborn Orleans Saints 35 points solve nil and proceeded to position playoffs, the first time inconvenience fourteen years. On December 17, , the Chargers won their first AFC West division appellation by defeating the Denver Broncos 17–7 before a national Mon Night Football television audience gain their home crowd.

In probity divisional round, the Houston Oilers defeated the Chargers 17– Daffo Mix became the second Federation player and second Charger bump into be nominated to the Veteran Football Hall of Fame. Rendering announcement was made during dignity half-time of the AFC-NFC Athlete Bowl.[31]

Main article: San Diego Chargers season

In , running back Bring up Muncie was traded to honesty team from the New Besieging Saints.

Fouts set a staff record with yards passing imprint the Chargers' 44–7 defeat rule the New York Giants.[32] Kellen Winslow caught 10 passes infer yards. The Chargers defeated description Pittsburgh Steelers 26–17, winning their second straight AFC West reputation. They finished the season give up 11–5 losses, a record represent the team.

Jefferson (1,), Settler (1,), and Joiner (1,) became the first three players statement the same team to enjoy 1, yards receiving in trig season. The Chargers' defense reserved the NFL in sacks (60). The defensive front line designated the Chargers' draftees Fred Sacristan, Gary "Big Hands" Johnson enthralled Louie Kelcher.

Together with Leroy Jones, the front line was known as the "Bruise Brothers".

In the playoffs, the Chargers defeated the Buffalo Bills 20– However, their season ended oppress the AFC Championship Game advocate the hands of the decisive Super Bowl champion Oakland Raiders 34–

Main article: San Diego Chargers season

In , the Chargers won their third straight AFC West title with a 10–6 record.

After the division decorations of the and seasons, arrangement disputes arose. Klein, the plan owner, refused to renegotiate players' contracts. The Chargers' owner traded the wide receiver, John President, to the Green Bay Packers after a salary raise could not be agreed upon. President was replaced by Wes Writer. Defensive end Dean was traded to the 49ers, again make sure of a pay dispute.[33] Dean alleged his wage was similar disturb that of his brother, exceptional truck driver.[34] Playing only 11 games, Dean would nonetheless grow the UPI NFC Defensive Artiste of the Year.

In bear , without Jefferson, the Chargers no longer had the first passing yards in the NFL.[35][36]

"I can't say how much tidiness [Dean's leaving] affected us, thanks to we did make it stop the AFC championship game", held Johnson on the loss attain fellow lineman Dean.

"But Frenzied could say if we confidential more pass rush from nobility corner, it might've been different."[37]

In the playoffs divisional round, integrity Chargers defeated the Miami Dolphins 41–38 at the Miami Orangeness Bowl where the temperature brains a humid day was 85&#;°F or &#;°C. The game became known as "The Epic attach Miami".

ESPN journalists named righteousness epic the best game temper NFL history.[38] Both teams showed strong offense. The Chargers were led by Fouts[39] who enthusiastic an NFL single season snap of 4, yards and 33 touchdowns.[40]

This game set records take care of the most points scored link with a playoff game (79 points);[41] the greatest total yards indifferent to both teams (1, yards);[41] famous the most passing yards indifference both teams ( yards).[41]

The Chargers placekicker, Rolf Benirschke kicked goodness winning yard field goal tail end 13 minutes and 52 to sum up overtime.

The tight end, Kellen Winslow, made 13 receptions plan yards, a touchdown and tighten up blocked field goal. He became exhausted and was assisted steer clear of the field by his teammates.[42] The win sent the Chargers to their second consecutive AFC Championship Game.

At the promotion game in Cincinnati, the Bengals defeated the Chargers 27–7.

Significance game became known as depiction "Freezer Bowl". The temperature was a record low −9&#;°F submission −&#;°C with a wind-chill consequence of −59&#;°F or −&#;°C.[43]

During description strike-shortened season, Fouts averaged yards passing per game. At zigzag time, that average was natty record.[44] The Chargers defeated San Francisco 41 points to 37 and Cincinnati 50 points comprehensively In each game, Fouts threw for over yards.[45] In birth game against Cincinnati on Dec 20, , the Chargers' undemanding yards passing and yards rushing.[46] Chandler set a record another yards receiving per game.[47] Depiction Chargers reached the playoffs compel the fourth straight year, presumption fifth in the AFC (divisional standings were disregarded due detection the abbreviated schedule).

The crew upset the Pittsburgh Steelers bring to fruition Pittsburgh 31–28, but the Dolphins would exact revenge from their loss the previous year picture next week 34–

gnome the Chargers fall to 6–10 and equal last in their division, despite having the league's most passing yards for loftiness sixth consectuve season. In , Klein decreased salaries in remit for the team's sale.

Birth defensive linemen, Johnson and Kelcher, left for San Francisco.[33] Guilt August 1, , Alex Spanos purchased a majority interest break open the Chargers. Benirschke was known as "Miller Man of the Year". Joiner set an NFL measuring tape with his th pass welcome in the fourth quarter decay the game at Pittsburgh.[32]

In repellent guard Ed White set emblematic NFL record by playing cage up NFL games.

Lionel "Little Train" James, a 5'6", pound command back, set an NFL incline of 2, all-purpose yards increase in intensity of 1, receiving yards provoke a running back.[48]

Changing head coaches (–)

During the season, following say publicly resignation of Coryell, Al Saunders was named head coach.

In , Joiner retired to expire the Chargers' receivers' coach. Righteousness team finished the season 8–7, including a 3–0 record rough the "replacement" team during leadership player's strike. The only block out team to go undefeated around that time was the Wonderful Bowl Champion Washington Redskins.

Funny story Fouts retired after a generation career. He set seven NFL records and 42 club record office, and became the NFL's superfluous most prolific passer of draft time with 43, yards. Fouts's jersey, the number 14, was retired at halftime at class "Dan Fouts Day" game bargain San Diego.[32]

In the season, Dan Henning, a former Chargers' back, Washington Redskins assistant, and Besieging Falcons head coach, became character Chargers' head coach.[32] A pull it off year running back, Marion Butts, set a club record able 39 carries and a group rookie record of yards trauma the Chargers' 20 points get paid 13 win against Kansas City.[32]Steve Ortmayer, the director of hockey operations for the past one years, left and was replaced by Bobby Beathard.[32] The company would post double-digit losses among and

In the season, Fuzz Ross became the Chargers' intellect coach.

Quarterback, Stan Humphries was obtained in a trade partner the Washington Redskins.[49] The Chargers finished the season 11–5 prosperous won the AFC West fame, making their first playoff looks in a decade. Ross was named AFC Coach of depiction Year.[49][50] In the wild-card protest, the Chargers shut out decency Kansas City Chiefs 17–0.

Exploitation, they were shut out encourage the Miami Dolphins in significance divisional round, 31–0.

In , the Chargers finished 8–8, fulfilment fourth in the division.

AFC Champions

Main article: San Diego Chargers season

In the season, nobleness Chargers won 11–5. Quarterback Stan Humphries and wide receiver Cosmopolitan Martin, worked together to fashion a yard touchdown completion.

Class players contributing to the Chargers' AFC West Division championship facade linebacker Junior Seau, defensive tackles Reuben Davis and Shawn Actor and defensive end, Leslie O'Neal, and running back Natrone Implementation, Humphries and Martin who bound offensive moves. In the playoffs, the Chargers unexpectedly defeated primacy Dolphins 22–21 in the disjunctive round and the Steelers 17–13 in the AFC Championship Amusement.

The Chargers were defeated in and out of the 49ers 49–26 in Gaffer Bowl XXIX.

Despite the Foreman Bowl loss, Beathard, who was responsible for the team program and choice of coach, was named the "NFL's Smartest Man" by Sports Illustrated.[51][52][53] However, justness Chargers' season proved less work out.

The team reached the playoffs with a 9–7 record on the other hand was defeated by the Indianapolis Colts 35–[54]

During the season, control back Rodney Culver was stick in the crash of ValuJet Flight in the FloridaEverglades. Back David Griggs had been handle in a single-car crash slot in Davie, Florida eleven months earlier.[49]

In the season, Beathard dismissed Ross.[49]Kevin Gilbride became the Chargers' creative head coach.[49] Gilbride encouraged uncomplicated more open passing attack, boss major change in offensive style.[55] Humphries suffered several concussions privilege to a lack of travel over protection and retired.[56] After trades of players and draft choices to the Arizona Cardinals, Beathard selected quarterback Ryan Leaf remain the second pick of birth NFL draft.

In the time, the Chargers went 5– Rodney Harrison said, "If I abstruse to go through another assemblage like that, I'd probably turn off playing."[57] When Gilbride left, yes was replaced by an fleeting head coach, June Jones, systematic member of the Chargers' staff.[49] Jones left the team fall out the end of the interval to coach at the Establishing of Hawaii.

The Chargers' spanking head coach was Mike Poet from Oregon State University.[49] Terminate to his poor play celebrated attitude, Leaf was released fend for the season. Jim Harbaugh, who was acquired in a buying with the Baltimore Ravens friendship a conditional draft choice twist , became the Chargers' first quarterback.

Beathard retired in Apr and was replaced in Jan by John Butler, former accepted manager of the Bills.[58] Punishment to , the Chargers esoteric eight consecutive seasons where they finished with just as various, if not more losses prior to wins.[59]

In , Riley chose Norv Turner, a former head governess of the Redskins, as fillet offensive coordinator.[58] Turner proposed swindler offense method which he abstruse employed at the Dallas Cowboys.[60] The Chargers signed former Rattle Bills quarterback Doug Flutie careful also traded the team's gain victory overall selection in the NFL draft to the Atlanta Falcons in return for the first-round selection (fifth overall) and third-round selection in the same first attempt.

In addition the Chargers transmitted copied the wide receiver-kick returner, Tim Dwight, and the Falcons' second-round draft selection in the NFL draft. The Chargers used those selections in the draft assortment select Texas Christian University operation back LaDainian Tomlinson and Purdue University quarterback Drew Brees.[58]

– Marty Schottenheimer era

For the season, Marty Schottenheimer replaced Riley.

Under Schottenheimer, the Chargers won their final four games.[58] Butler would harvest to cancer after a nine-month struggle in April ,[58] alight was replaced by A. Detail. Smith, who was named Chairman of the board Vice President and General Manager.[61]

In , the Chargers traded Seau to the Dolphins for fastidious draft pick in the NFL draft.

Before he left, Seau's teammates awarded him the Emil Karas Award for the team's Most Inspirational Player.[62] Tomlinson amassed total yards from scrimmage instruct in a late season game destroy the Packers to raise circlet season total to 2, Take action became the first Charger deed the eighth player in NFL history to record consecutive 2,yard seasons.[58] Tomlinson also became dignity first player in NFL wildlife to rush for 1, yards and catch passes in interpretation same season.[58] The Chargers were the host team for loftiness Super Bowl XXXII and Foreman Bowl XXXVII.

The season proverb the Chargers win their twig divisional title since with dexterous 12–4 record. They quickly were eliminated by the New Royalty Jets in the first strange of the playoffs, 20–17 hard cash overtime.

During the NFL blueprint, the Chargers drafted key rookies who would help carry rectitude momentum from the success.

Honourableness Chargers used their first catalogue to gain Shawne Merriman unfamiliar the University of Maryland. Their next picks included Luis Castillo from Northwestern University, Vincent General from Northern Colorado, Darren Sproles from Kansas State, Wesley Copepod from Alabama University, Wes Sims from Oklahoma University, and inside, Scott Mruczkowski from Bowling Growing State.

The Chargers lost their first game of the course to the Dallas Cowboys soughtafter home 28–24, and their more game 20–17 in Denver clashing the Broncos. Through Tomlinson's efforts, the Chargers won their base game at home against leadership New York Giants. Tomlinson took yards in total, 3 haste touchdowns, and threw for trig touchdown helping the team design win 45– The Chargers commit fraud defeated the defending Super Food Champion New England Patriots 41– For their fifth game blaspheme the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Chargers wore their throwback uniforms.

Honesty Steelers defeated the Chargers 24–22 after Jeff Reed made great yard field goal. The Chargers won the sixth game overcome the Oakland Raiders, 27– Export the seventh game, against ethics Eagles in Philadelphia, the Chargers were leading 17–13 until unpunctual in the game. Then, trig Chargers' field goal was pathless and returned 65 yards soak Matt Ware.

This led manuscript a game-winning touchdown for grandeur Eagles to prevail by 20 to

After winning three merrymaking and losing four, the Chargers won the following five festivity. These included a 28–20 multiply by two at home against the River City Chiefs and a 31–26 away win against the Fresh York Jets. The tenth hebdomad was a bye, followed prep between a 48–10 home win delicate throwback uniforms against the Make a mess of Bills.

Then, the team won against the Washington Redskins, 23–17 in overtime and the support week against the Oakland Raiders at home, 34–

The Chargers were defeated 23–21 by nobility Miami Dolphins. On December 18, , the Chargers defeated blue blood the gentry Indianapolis Colts, 26–17 who abstruse won their previous 13 revelry. The Kansas City Chiefs for that reason defeated the Chargers 20–7, move the team was officially debarred from playoff contention.

The Chargers lost their final game capacity the season 23–7 to grandeur Denver Broncos. The Chargers fit the season with a 9–7 record.

– Rise of Prince Rivers

In the season, the Chargers finished the season 14–2, their best record ever. Their one losses came against the Ravens and Chiefs.

The team vanished Drew Brees in free instrumentality to the New Orleans Saints, setting the stage for write pick Philip Rivers to hire over at quarterback. They were seeded first in the AFC playoffs. In the divisional interject, the Chargers were defeated descendant the Patriots 24– After nobility season, Schottenheimer left and Norv Turner became the head tutor.

In the season, the Chargers went 11–5 and defeated ethics Tennessee Titans and Indianapolis Colts in the first two playoff rounds, before being defeated strong the Patriots in the AFC championship game.

In the occasion, the Chargers posted an 8–8 record. Despite that, they won the AFC West title caution a weak field.

The Chargers defeated the Colts in interpretation wild card round but left out to the Steelers in illustriousness divisional round.

In the term the Chargers won their foremost two games but lost their next three. For the restlessness of the season the Chargers won each game, including those against the NFC East teams. Having lost a game antagonistic the Broncos, the Chargers disappointed them in the eleventh hebdomad, 32–3.

In the twelfth period, the Chargers defeated the President Browns 30–23, and LaDainian Tomlinson broke Jim Brown's rushing not to be mentioned and Brown congratulated Tomlinson after. The Chargers secured another bisection title and became the AFC second seed. The Chargers for that reason played the Jets at dwelling-place on January 17, , gleam lost 17–

Main articles: San Diego Chargers season, San Diego Chargers season, and San Diego Chargers season

Prior to the period Tomlinson departed.

He was dangerous and an expensive contract. Rank Chargers lost the first recreation to Kansas City, 21– Righteousness second game was at caress was a win against righteousness Jaguars. However, low ticket marketable resulted in a blackout. Integrity third game, an away amusement, was a 27–20 loss be drawn against Seattle. The fourth game was a win for the Chargers against the Cardinals, 41–10 pressgang home, again with a shut down television blackout.

Then in loftiness next game, after many bombshells against the Raiders, the Chargers were defeated by them.[63] Rectitude Chargers won the next a handful of games then again were cringing by the Raiders at voters, 28 points to [64] Subsequently a game where they secured with the Raiders, the Chargers were defeated by the Bengals 34–20 and missed the playoffs for the first time by reason of The Chargers defeated Denver become more intense ended the season with ingenious 9–7 record.

The Chargers hone the season as the 8th team in NFL history watch over rank first in overall uncertain ( yards/game), and overall collection ( yards/game). Despite these facts, the team did not trade name the playoffs, a situation unique shared with the Eagles team.[65] The Chargers ended the term second to the Colts instructions passing yards per game (), second to the Patriots constrict points scored per game (), first in passing yards licit per game (), fourth escort rushing yards allowed per recreation (), and tied for above in sacks (47).

In oppose, the Chargers gave up representation most punt return yards hold up game () and gave 29 turnovers.[66] Rivers had a employment highlight of 4, yards, yards passing per game, 66 proportion completion; 30 TDs, 13 Foolishness and a passer rating. Tolbert made 11 rushing TDs most recent Gates made 10 receiving TDs.

Phillips made 11 sacks.[67]

The Chargers started the season 4–1 heretofore losing to the Patriots. They went on to lose tablet the Jets, Chiefs, Packers, Raiders, the Bears and Broncos. Leadership team was fraught with injuries. On December 5, , glory Chargers defeated the Jacksonville Jaguars. Three wins followed including well-organized solid defeat of the Ravens.

The Chargers were then foiled 38–10 by the Detroit Lions. After a 38–26 win destroy the Raiders in the 17th week, the Chargers finished honourableness season with an 8–8 top secret. The Chargers, Broncos and Raiders all finished 8–8, but depiction Broncos won the AFC Westside by virtue of tiebreakers.

During a game on October 21, , a line judge aphorism what he thought was top-hole suspicious substance, such as ingenious banned adhesive, on hand bed linens used by the Chargers’ players.[68] However, on November 7, nobleness NFL announced that the Chargers did not cheat.

Even tolerable, the team was fined $20,[69] After the season where greatness Chargers again failed to go on the playoffs, Smith and Slave were dismissed.[70]

Final years in San Diego (–)

Main articles: San Diego Chargers season, San Diego Chargers season, San Diego Chargers time, and San Diego Chargers season

On January 9, , the Chargers announced that Tom Telesco, pester Vice President of Football Act for the Indianapolis Colts, would become the Chargers' general administrator.

On January 15, , Broncos offensive coordinator, Mike McCoy, was hired as the Chargers' recent head coach and Ken Whisenhunt as offensive coordinator. D. Record. Fluker, Manti Te'o, and Keenan Allen were selected in grandeur first three rounds of description NFL draft.[71]

Under McCoy, the Chargers won two and lost four games.

The team then thwarted Indianapolis in the Monday Fallacious Football and then Jacksonville. Puzzle out a bye, the Chargers won four of the next fin games. They then won explosion the remaining regular season eagers. The team finished 9–7, suggest made the playoffs as put in order Wild Card team. On honourableness 50th anniversary of the Federation Championship, the Chargers beat Metropolis 27– In the wild calling-card playoff, Denver defeated the Chargers 24–

On January 13, , Ken Whisenhunt left the group to join the Titans.

Pastime January 14, , the Chargers announced Frank Reich, the back coach, would replace Whisenhunt monkey the team's offensive coordinator. Rendering Chargers also brought back Donald Butler, Chad Rinehart, and Darrell Stuckey; dismissed Derek Cox; cranium engaged the running backDonald Roast. The Chargers selected Jason Verrett, Jeremiah Attaochu, and Chris Artificer in the first three rationale of the NFL draft.

In September and October , justness Chargers won five games equate losing their first game abide by the season and then left behind a further three games. Severe players sustained injuries and primacy team finished the season comprise nine wins and seven injured. The Chargers did not put water in to enter the playoffs. Enhance three of their last yoke games, and five of their last eight, the Chargers upfront not score more than put the finishing touches to touchdown.

Compared to , righteousness offense dropped in points (from 12th in the league realize 17th), yards (5th to 18th), first downs (3rd to 15th), net yards per pass (2nd to 8th), rushing yards (13th to 30th) and yards jangle rush (21st to 31st). Bid was the second time staging three years the team abstruse finished second-to-last in yards carrying weapons carry.

In the AFC Western division the Chargers finished honesty season with two wins snowball four losses.

In the NFL draft, the Chargers selected Melvin Gordon, Denzel Perryman, and Craig Mager in the first couple rounds. The season started dressingdown with a win against representation Detroit Lions at home. Leadership Chargers lost to the City Bengals and Minnesota Vikings curb away games before defeating authority Cleveland Browns on a solid second field goal.

Following their two wins and two losings, the Chargers lost their ensue six games to the City Steelers, Green Bay Packers, Port Ravens, the Chicago Bears, deed the Oakland Raiders and illustriousness Kansas City Chiefs. The Chargers then won against the Jaguars in an away game. Neat week 15, defeated the Algonquian Dolphins, 30– The Chargers complete the season in last mine in the AFC West discipline third-last ahead of the Titans and the Browns in probity American Football Conference with dinky 4–12 record.

The Chargers drafted defensive endJoey Bosa in say publicly third overall pick of class draft. Other selections included Orion Henry, Max Tuerk, Joshua Commodore, Jatavis Brown, Drew Kaser, Derek Watt, and Donavon Clark.

The Chargers started their season acquire Kansas City, playing against character Chiefs and at half revolt, held a lead of 21–3.

The Chiefs rallied in authority second half, defeating the Chargers 33– In San Diego, rank Chargers defeated the Jaguars 38– Running back Danny Woodhead upfront not play due to interrupt anterior cruciate ligament injury. High-mindedness Chargers then lost to greatness Colts, the Saints and glory Raiders before winning against representation Broncos 21–13 and the Falcons, 33– There were further dead including to the Dolphins, 31–24; to Kansas City, 37–27 difficulty San Diego; and to nobility Browns in week

Return instantaneously Los Angeles

See also: San Diego Chargers stadium proposals

The owner have power over the Chargers, Dean Spanos advocated for many years for significance city of San Diego get in touch with build a new stadium.

Professional no success, the Chargers, inconvenience association with the Raiders, set able to construct a new circus in Carson, California.[72]

Immediately after goodness conclusion of the season, position Chargers, Rams, and Raiders term filed applications to relocate resume Los Angeles.[73] On January 12, , the NFL owners favorite 30–2 to allow the Rams to return to Los Angeles, approving their Inglewood stadium appointment.

The Chargers, however, were delineated an approval to relocate serve one year's time, under distinction condition they negotiate a make or partnership agreement with illustriousness Rams.[74] The Chargers registered grandeur trademark, "Los Angeles Chargers".[75] They submitted to the City medium Santa Ana the grading service landscape plans for a five-acre parcel of land which would serve as an interim base and training facility.[76] The Chargers and Rams came to stupendous agreement in principle on division the planned City of Champions Stadium to commence on Jan 29, Both teams would furnish a $ million stadium credit from the NFL and inaccessible seat license fees to justness construction costs and would repay $1 per year in go to the wall to the facility's controlling oppose, StadCo LA, LLC.[77][78][79]

The NFL redouble encouraged the Chargers to linger in San Diego by dues the team $ million allowing they were to enter response an agreement with the propensity of San Diego.[74] On Jan 29, , Spanos, the Chargers' chief executive officer, announced ensure the team would remain bask in San Diego for the season.[80] The Chargers continued to reflect public approval of a another stadium in San Diego.[77] Devotion February 23, , the Chargers announced that their preferred voyage for a new stadium was the East Village, in downtown San Diego.

The funds appropriate the stadium would come the team, the NFL pointer the City of San Diego. Even though it was smart more economical proposal, the Chargers dismissed the city's alternative system for a stadium in Hand in Valley. Between April 21 captivated June 10, , the Chargers collected , signatures in relieve of a new downtown field.

On July 9, , nobleness San Diego city clerk customary the signatures and on July 18, , the San Diego City Council voted unanimously picture put the downtown stadium method to a public ballot. Saddle July 28, , the San Diego Regional Chamber of Marketing announced its support of rectitude Chargers' downtown stadium proposal, other on October 3, , Politician Kevin Faulconer announced his posterior.

However, on November 8, , the proposal (Measure C) unsuccessful to receive support at button ballot (57 percent against very last 43 percent for).

In Dec , the NFL owners favoured the terms of a tenure agreement between the Chargers stomach the Rams and the Chargers debt ceiling. On December 23, , the Chargers leased far-out property of approximately 3 land in Costa Mesa for role, practice fields, and training paragraph.

On January 12, , Spanos announced the Chargers would advance back to Los Angeles purpose the season. The team would play at Dignity Health Amusements Park (known as the StubHub Center until ) in Backwoodsman, and beginning with the stint, play at SoFi Stadium.[81]

In , when the Chargers moved their practice facility to Orange Domain, the Chargers removed all references to the city of San Diego from their website boss merchandise.[82]

In returning to Los Angeles, the Chargers became the base franchise to relocate to exceptional previous home city (after influence Raiders, who left Oakland bear and returned in , most recent the Rams, who left Los Angeles in and returned boil ).

Additionally, they were probity second former San Diego business to play in the Singlemindedness of Angels (after the Scissors, who relocated in ).

As of the NFL season, linebackers Joey Bosa and Denzel Perryman are the last active appoint on the Chargers who stricken in San Diego following integrity trade of wide receiver Keenan Allen to the Chicago Bears.

Records

Seasons

AFL Champions (–) Conference ChampionsDivision ChampionsWild Card Berth

  • A As splendid result of the AFL–NFL confederation, the league was broken change two conferences; the AFL teams moved into the American Battleground Conference.
  • B This season included high-mindedness Holy Roller game.
  • C The Chargers finished ahead of Oakland nucleus the AFC West based put out better net points in rupture games.
  • D The Chargers finished in advance of the Denver Broncos home-produced on better divisional record.
  • E That game is known as Say publicly Epic in Miami.
  • F This affair was known as the Deepfreeze Bowl.
  • G The season was truncated by a strike, so authority league was divided up snag two conferences instead of university teacher normal divisional alignment.
  • H The thrash of reduced the regular time schedule from 16 to 15 games.

Retired numbers

Main article: Los Angeles Chargers retired numbers

San Diego Chargers retired numbers
No.

Player Position Tenure
14Dan FoutsQB