Established
1960
City
Los Angeles - San Diego - Los Angeles
League History
1970 - Present / National Football League
1960 - 1970 / American Football League
Team History
2017 - Present / Los Angeles Chargers
1961 - 2016 / San Diego Chargers
1960 / Los Angeles Chargers
Nickname
Chargers - The San Diego Chargers are a professional National Football League (NFL) football team. The team has been around since 1960 when they were founded as part of the American Football League. But how did they get their name? Let’s explore the origins of this iconic NFL nickname.
San Diego Chargers Origin
As it turns out, there is an interesting story behind why this California-based franchise was named “Chargers.” It all began with Barron Hilton, who owned and operated a hotel chain called Hilton Hotels in 1959 when he purchased a controlling interest in the newly formed AFL expansion team that would eventually become known as San Diego Chargers. He wanted to develop something catchy for his new venture, so he went with “Chargers” because it sounded strong – just like his hotels!
Additionally, some believe that Hilton chose this particular name because of its association with electricity – one of his company's core products at that time - making it particularly fitting for an electric city like San Diego! And while we may never know precisely why Barron picked "Chargers" over other possible names such as "Cougars" or "Aztecs," one thing is sure: The moniker has undoubtedly stood the test of time and continues to be associated strongly today, not only within sports circles but also across many different industries worldwide!
Championship
Super Bowl 0
AFL Championships 1
1963
Stadium
2020 – Present / SoFi Stadium
2018 – 2019 / Los Angeles Stadium at Hollywood Park (during construction)
2019 / Dignity Health Sports Park
2017 – 2018 / StubHub Center
*San Diego*
1998 - 2016 / Qualcomm Stadium
1981 - 1997 / Jack Murphy Stadium
1967 - 1980 / San Diego Stadium
1961 - 1966 / Balboa Stadium
*Los Angeles*
1960 / Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
Owner
1994 - Present / Dean Spanos
1984 - 1993 / Alex Spanos
1966 - 1984 / Gene Klein and Sam Schulman
1960 - 1966 / Barron Hilton
- 1961
- 1967
- 1984
- 2003
- 2017
-
Move to San Diego
The Chargers spent only one season in L.A. before moving to San Diego in 1961. Hilton moved the team 75 miles south to San Diego. From 1961 to 1966 their home field in San Diego was Balboa Stadium in Balboa Park. -
New Stadium “The Murpy”
In the early 1960s, local sportswriter Jack Murphy, the brother of New York Mets broadcaster Bob Murphy, began to build up support for a multi-purpose stadium for San Diego. In November 1965, a $27 million bond was passed allowing construction to begin on a stadium, which was designed in the Brutalist style. Construction on the stadium began one month later. ... -
Alex Spanos New Owner
In 1984, Spanos bought 60% of the San Diego Chargers from majority owner Eugene Klein for $48.3 million. Over the next 10 years, he bought out the shares of several small co-owners, bringing his control of the team to 97%. He remains partnered with retired San Diego restaurateur George Pernicano, an investor in the team since a few years after ... -
Drafting Eli Manning
Although the Chargers were tied with three other teams for the worst record of the 2003 NFL season, the league’s tie-breaking system gave San Diego the number one pick in the 2004 NFL Draft. With this pick, the Chargers selected quarterback Eli Manning from the University of Mississippi despite Manning’s stated desire to play elsewhere. New York Giants general manager ... -
Chargers Heading Back to LA
On January 12, 2017, ESPN reported that the Chargers were going to announce a move back to Los Angeles for the 2017 season. Chargers owner Dean Spanos officially announced a return to Los Angeles on January 12, 2017.
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
San Diego Chargers History
The San Diego Chargers history is deeply connected to professional football and the NFL. Founded in 1960 as a charter member of the AFL, the team became a beloved franchise that left a lasting impact on the league. Known for their loyal fans and competitive spirit, the Chargers—once called the San Diego Chargers—earned respect across decades of play.
In the early years of San Diego Chargers history, the team thrived on both offense and defense. Hall of Famers like Lance Alworth, Keith Lincoln, and Paul Lowe carried the rushing attack, while Ernie Ladd, Earl Faison, and Ron Mix anchored a dominant defense. Their efforts led to two AFL championships, and many stars from this period became Pro Bowlers and All-Pros.
Transitioning into the Don Coryell era, the Chargers became famous for “Air Coryell,” a record-setting offensive system. With stars such as Dan Fouts, Kellen Winslow Sr., and Charlie Joiner, the team lit up scoreboards and changed offensive football forever. However, despite memorable moments, inconsistency and coaching changes brought challenges during later decades.
San Diego Chargers Achievements
Even with ups and downs, San Diego Chargers history includes numerous playoff appearances and unforgettable seasons. Players like Philip Rivers and LaDainian Tomlinson gave fans exciting performances that kept the franchise competitive. While the move to Los Angeles marked a new chapter, the Chargers’ San Diego legacy remains iconic.
When reviewing San Diego Chargers history, team achievements stand out. The Chargers won two AFL titles, made over 15 playoff appearances, and reached the Super Bowl in 1994. LaDainian Tomlinson’s MVP season in 2006 highlighted their modern era, while Philip Rivers set passing records. These accomplishments keep the San Diego Chargers celebrated as one of football’s historic franchises.
Sports Fan Products
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Retired Number
14 / Dan Fouts
19 / Lance Alworth
21 / LaDainian Tomlinson
55 / Junior Seau
*Blue is this team’s history
