The Los Angeles Chargers stand as a franchise built on high-powered offenses, star quarterbacks, and dynamic playmakers.
From early AFL success to modern-era excitement, the Bolts have built a reputation for explosive scoring, memorable moments, and thrilling finishes.
Founded in 1960, the Chargers originally called Los Angeles home before relocating to San Diego for more than five decades. In 2017, the team returned to Los Angeles, ushering in a new chapter powered by a modern roster and a rapidly growing fan base in Southern California.
While championships have been elusive, the Chargers remain known for superstar performances, record-breaking offenses, and a legacy of premier talent.
With passionate supporters, a bright young core, and a history filled with legends, the Chargers continue striving to turn potential into lasting postseason success.
Where Do the Los Angeles Chargers Play?
The Chargers play their home games at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, which they share with the Los Angeles Rams. Opened in 2020 and seating over 70,000 fans, SoFi is one of the most technologically advanced stadiums in the world, featuring a massive dual-sided video board, premium amenities, and stunning modern architecture.
History of the Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers were established in 1960 as part of the AFL, spending their inaugural season in Los Angeles before relocating to San Diego in 1961. Led by head coach Sid Gillman, a pioneer of the modern passing game, the Chargers became an early power and won the 1963 AFL Championship behind a high-scoring offense that revolutionized football strategy.
The franchise produced Hall of Fame talent across the decades, including Dan Fouts, LaDainian Tomlinson, and Junior Seau, forming the backbone of several eras of success.
The Air Coryell years of the late 1970s and early 1980s turned San Diego into the home of one of football’s most exciting offenses. Those seasons were marked by creativity, speed, and a prolific passing led by Fouts, receivers Charlie Joiner and Wes Chandler, and tight end Kellen Winslow.
The Chargers finally reached their first Super Bowl in the 1994 season, led by Seau and a tough defensive unit. However, they ultimately fell to a record-breaking performance by Steve Young and the San Francisco 49ers. In 2017, the franchise relocated back to Los Angeles, later drafting star quarterback Justin Herbert as the new face of the organization.
Today, the Chargers continue chasing their first Super Bowl title while leaning on young talent, offensive firepower, and a commitment to building a championship future.
Interesting Facts & Franchise Milestones
- Founded in 1960; AFL Champions in 1963
- Known for pioneering the modern passing attack under Sid Gillman
- Reached Super Bowl XXIX during the 1994 season
- Returned to Los Angeles in 2017; moved into SoFi Stadium in 2020
- Home to Hall of Famers including Tomlinson, Seau, Fouts & Winslow
Notable Los Angeles Chargers Players & Coaches
Notable Players
Lance Alworth, Wide Receiver (1962–1970)
Nicknamed “Bambi,” Alworth was one of the AFL’s first true stars, known for his graceful athleticism and big-play ability during the franchise’s early era.
Dan Fouts, Quarterback (1973–1987)
A Hall of Fame signal-caller who powered the high-flying Air Coryell offense, Fouts helped popularize the modern passing game and set long-standing team records.
Kellen Winslow Sr., Tight End (1979–1987)
One of the most influential tight ends in NFL history, Winslow redefined the position as a true receiving weapon and delivered legendary playoff performances.
Junior Seau, Linebacker (1990–2002)
A dominant force and emotional leader for more than a decade, Junior Seau became the face of the franchise and a defensive icon en route to the Hall of Fame.
LaDainian Tomlinson, Running Back (2001–2009)
A dynamic talent as a runner and a receiver, LaDainian Tomlinson topped 2,000 yards from scrimmage three times. That includes his MVP-winning 2006 season, during which he set the single-season touchdown record. Tomlinson ran for more than 1,000 yards in each of his first eight seasons in San Diego and remains an all-time great at his position.
Antonio Gates, Tight End (2003–2018)
A former college basketball standout who became an all-time great tight end, Gates spent his entire NFL career with the Chargers, including the final two seasons in Los Angeles. He was a top target for both Drew Brees and Phillip Rivers, catching 118 touchdown passes in his 16 seasons.
Philip Rivers, Quarterback (2004–2019)
Tough, durable, and highly productive, Rivers ranks among the most accomplished passers of his generation. Including a final season spent with the Indianapolis Colts, Rivers started 240 consecutive regular season games, as well as 12 of 12 possible playoff games, after stepping into a starting role in San Diego in 2006.
Justin Herbert, Quarterback (2020–present)
A franchise cornerstone with elite arm talent, Herbert has quickly become one of the NFL’s top quarterbacks and remains central to the team’s future.
Notable Coaches
Sid Gillman (1960–1969, 1971)
A visionary mind and one of football’s most influential figures, Gillman was the team’s coach for a successful debut season in Los Angeles and built the Chargers into an early powerhouse as they settled in San Diego. Gillman helped shape the modern passing offense and won more than 60% of his games with the franchise.
Don Coryell (1978–1986)
Architect of “Air Coryell,” Coryell led one of the most exciting offenses the NFL has ever seen. His creative schemes influenced generations of offensive coaches.
Marty Schottenheimer (2002–2006)
Schottenheimer’s tenure may be remembered for how falling short with potential championship contenders, but he led the franchise to two AFC West titles, including a 14-2 season in his final season.
Norv Turner (2007-2012)
Turner succeeded Schottenheimer and won three consecutive AFC West titles in his first three seasons. In his first season, the Chargers made the AFC Championship Game.