1987 San Diego Chargers season

NFL team season November 2013 March 2026 San Diego Chargers 1987 8–7 3rd AFC West Al Saunders Steve Ortmayer Alex Spanos Jack Murphy Stadium Did not qualify 3 T Jim Lachey P Ralf Mojsiejenko TE Kellen Winslow 3 T Jim Lachey (2nd team) P Ralf Mojsiejenko (2nd team) TE Kellen Winslow (2nd team) Chargers seasons thumb|right|Wes Chandler led the team with 617 receiving yards in 1987. He also served as the Chargers' union representative during the players' strike. The 1987 San Diego Chargers was the franchise's 18th season in the National Football League (NFL), and the 28th overall. The team improved on their 4–12 record in 1986, finishing 8–7 but missing the playoffs. A players’ strike reduced the regular season schedule from sixteen to fifteen games. The Chargers started the season 8–1, with victories over eventual division winners Indianapolis and Cleveland, before collapsing to lose their final six games of the season, narrowly missing the playoffs. All but one of their final six losses came to teams that made the postseason. As was the case with all NFL teams in 1987, the Chargers were obliged to field a replacement team for three weeks due to the NFLPA strike. This team, dubbed the 'Re-Chargers' by head coach Al Saunders, was made up primarily of players who had missed the final cut for an NFL squad in preseason. While the regular players picketed outside San Diego's Jack Murphy Stadium, the new Chargers won three games out of three against other replacement teams. After the strike ended, most of the regular Chargers reclaimed their jobs, though some replacements were able to keep their places in the squad beyond the end of the 1987 season. In the twelve non-strike games, San Diego performed fairly well on defense, with defensive end Lee Williams, linebacker Billy Ray Smith and safety Vencie Glenn among the leaders. The offense, however, struggled increasingly as the season wore on. With the run game contributing little, it fell to quarterback Dan Fouts and the passing attack to produce points, but they were hampered by sacks, turnovers and Fouts' struggle to recapture his mid-career form. It would be his final season in the NFL, having spent his entire fifteen-year career in San Diego. Also retiring after the season was tight end Kellen Winslow, ending his nine-year career with a fifth Pro Bowl berth. Offseason Departures and arrivals San Diego lost a future Hall of Fame wide receiver during the offseason when Charlie Joiner announced his retirement.Charlie Joiner https://www.profootballhof.com/players/charlie-joiner/ Pro Football Hall of Fame 24 April 2022 Joiner finished as the NFL career leader in receptions (750) and receiving yards (12,146).Charlie Joiner stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/J/JoinCh00.htm pro-football-reference.com 24 April 2022 At 39, he considered himself too old to play on, but switched to a new role as the Chargers' receiving coach.Posner Jay Joiner to retire and become a coach https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100376906/joiner-retires-12-jan-1987/ C1 Escondido Times-Advocate 12 January 1987 The Chargers also traded their third-leading wide receiver from 1986,1986 San Diego Chargers stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/sdg/1986.htm pro-football-reference.com 24 April 2022 Trumaine Johnson, to the Buffalo Bills in exchange for linebacker David Brandon and a 3rd-round draft pick.San Diego shuffles Trumaine to Buffalo https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100378250/trumaine-out-1-sep-1987/ AP 17 Escondido Times-Advocate 24 April 1987 They also switched backup running backs, trading Buford McGee and two future draft picks to the Rams in exchange for Barry Redden.Rams trade Redden to Chargers https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100379284/mcgee-for-redden-10-june-1987/ 2-C Tampa Tribune 10 June 1987 McGee had scored seven touchdowns in the first nine weeks in 1986, but missed the final seven games after a double knee surgery; Redden was a former 1st-round draft pick, but went on to have only 30 carries during his two years with the Chargers.Barry Redden stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/R/ReddBa00.htm pro-football-reference.com 24 April 2022 On the offensive line, the Chargers added Broderick Thompson, a former Cowboy who started only 3 games in 1987, but 76 out of a possible 80 from 1988 to 1992.Broderick Thompson stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/T/ThomBr22.htm pro-football-reference.com 24 April 2022 An established defensive player also left the active squad when linebacker Woodrow Lowe was placed on injured reserve during preseason; he did not play again, and was eventually released on 11 March 1988.Posner Jay Lowe released by Chargers https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100390441/lowe-out-11-march-1988/ D2 Escondido Times-Advocate 11 March 1988 Lowe spent his entire playing career with the Chargers, appearing in 164 out of a possible 165 games from 1976 to 1986.Woodrow Lowe stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/L/LoweWo20.htm pro-football-reference.com 24 April 2022 San Diego also added an established linebacker in Chip Banks, who had made the Pro Bowl in four of his five seasons with the Browns, though he had held out while in Cleveland.Chip Banks used in deal by Browns https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100391739/marion-star-28-april-1987/ 10 Marion Star 28 April 1987 After playing a single season in San Diego, he did so once more, and never played for the Chargers again after 1987.Slater Jim Colts sign troubled Chip Banks https://www.upi.com/Archives/1989/10/17/Colts-sign-troubled-Chip-Banks/5270624600000/ UPI September 24, 2022Chip Banks stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/B/BankCh01.htm pro-football-reference.com 24 April 2022 On the defensive line, San Diego picked up Mike Charles, a nose tackle recently cut by Miami.Dorman Larry Mike Charles gets fresh start at San Diego https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100398639/charles-in-11-sep-1987/ 7E Miami Herald 11 September 1987 He went on to start 25 games during three years with the Chargers.Mike Charles stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/C/CharMi20.htm pro-football-reference.com 25 April 2022 Meanwhile, defensive end Earl Wilson, who had started 15 games over the past two seasons, was cut after week 1.Earl Wilson stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/W/WilsEa20.htm pro-football-reference.com 25 April 2022 He was arrested as part of a drug investigation later the same day, though the Chargers stated the timing was coincidental and his release was based purely on performance.2 Charger players arrested for drugs https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100399970/wilson-out-16-sep-1987/ AP 14 Marion Star 16 September 1987 In the defensive backfield, San Diego traded cornerback Wayne Davis for Buffalo safety Martin Bayless.Friend Tom Chargers acquire Bayless to shore up secondary in exchange for Wayne Davis https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100401946/davis-for-bayless-27-aug-1987/ III-4 Los Angeles Times 27 August 1987 Bayless started every non-strike game for the Chargers in 1987, and went on to start 66 times in total during five seasons in San Diego.Martin Bayless stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/B/BaylMa20.htm pro-football-reference.com 25 April 2022 The Chargers held a battle for the placekicker position through training camp and preseason, eventually won by free agent acquisition Vince Abbott, who secured his first NFL job after losing four previous training camp battles.Benirschke will watch as job battle continues https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100462498/kicking-battle-27-aug-1987/ D1, D2 Escondido Times-Advocate 27 August 1987Vince Abbott stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/A/abbotvin01.htm pro-football-reference.com 25 April 2022 This meant that veteran Rolf Benirschke lost his job after ten years in San Diego; he was traded to Dallas for a draft pick. Benirschke felt he wasn't given a fair chance to compete for the job after attempting no field goals in preseason. He left as the team's leading scorer (766 points), and the third-best kicker in league history by career field goal percentage (70.2%),Chargers send Benirschke to Dallas https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100463726/benirschke-out-1-sep-1987/ AP C-1 Victorville Daily Press 1 September 1987 though his accuracy had diminished through the past four seasons.Rolf Benirschke stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/B/benirrol01.htm pro-football-reference.com 26 April 2022 NFL draft 1987 NFL draft Despite having three veteran tight ends on their roster, the Chargers added more depth at that position with their 1st-round draft pick;Posner Jay Even Spanos is happy with draft https://www.newspapers.com/clip/101109665/banks-trade-29-april-1987/ D1, D2 Escondido Times-Advocate 29 April 1987 Rod Bernstine had played at running back in high school, but converted to tight end under the advice of Texas A&M coach Jackie Sherrill.Cobbs Chris Bernstine will fit in, Joiner says https://www.newspapers.com/clip/102336375/bernstine-history-30-april-1987/ III-1, III-7 Los Angeles Times 30 April 1987 He had only 10 catches as a rookie, and eventually switched back to the running back position. Bernstine would finish his time with the Chargers having scored 19 touchdowns and rushed for over 2,000 yards, with a further 888 receiving yards.Rod Bernstine stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/B/BernRo00.htm pro-football-reference.com 22 May 2022 Except for Bernstine, the Chargers received little production from their 1987 draft class, with all but four having left the team within two years.Frank Jeff Ortmayer needs solid draft outing https://www.newspapers.com/clip/102353558/draft-misses-23-april-1989/ D2 Escondido Times-Advocate 23 April 1989 2nd-round pick Lou Brock was placed on injured reserve with an infection of the lymphatic system after only one game, and released before the following season without playing again.Lou Brock Jr. cut by Chargers; Bears Wilson out https://www.newspapers.com/clip/102352391/brock-cut-30-aug-1988/ AP C1 St. Louis Post-Dispatch 30 August 1988 Defensive end Karl Wilson started only twice in two years,Karl Wilson stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/W/WilsKa20.htm pro-football-reference.com 22 May 2022 while quarterback Mark Vlasic started three times in three years.Mark Vlasic stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/V/VlasMa00.htm pro-football-reference.com 22 May 2022 Wide receiver Jamie Holland started in 12 games and also featured as a kickoff returner, but scored only twice in three seasons with the team.Jamie Holland stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HollJa00.htm pro-football-reference.com 22 May 2022 1987 San Diego Chargers 1 24 Rod Bernstine Tight end Texas A&M no yes 2 53 Lou Brock Cornerback USC no yes 3 59 Karl Wilson Defensive end LSU no yes 4 88 Mark Vlasic Quarterback Iowa no yes 5 115 Nelson Jones Defensive back NC State no yes 7 173 Jamie Holland Wide receiver Ohio State no yes 8 199 Joe MacEsker Tackle UTEP no no 8 204 Michael "Ron" Brown Linebacker USC no no 9 226 Thomas Wilcher Running back Michigan no no 10 256 Anthony Anderson Defensive back Grambling State Recalled to Chargers for strike games no no 11 284 Joe Goebel Center UCLA Recalled to Chargers for strike games no no 12 310 Marcus Greenwood Running back UCLA no no no Personnel Staff 1987 San Diego Chargers Chairman of the board and president – Alex Spanos Director of football operations – Steve Ortmayer Assistant to the president – Johnny Sanders Director of player personnel – Chet Franklin Director of pro personnel – Rudy Feldman Head coach – Al Saunders Offensive coordinator – Dave Levy Offensive line – Ed White Quarterbacks – Roger Theder Running backs – Bobby Jackson Receivers – Charlie Joiner Defensive coordinator – Ron Lynn Defensive assistant / secondary – Jim Mora Defensive line – Gunther Cunningham Linebackers – Mike Haluchak Special teams – Wayne Sevier 1987 San Diego Chargers statistics & players https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/sdg/1987.htm pro-football-reference.com 22 May 2022First steroid tests to take place Thursday https://www.newspapers.com/clip/102357862/sanders-28-jan-1987/ AP E-4 Kansas City Times 28 January 1987Chargers' staff shows variety of experiences https://www.newspapers.com/clip/102356180/coaching-staff-12-sep-1987/ 27, 39 Escondido Times-Advocate 12 September 1987Beckman joins scouting staff of the Chargers https://www.newspapers.com/clip/102357299/franklin-and-feldman-7-july-1987/ III-2 Los Angeles Times 7 July 1987 Roster 1987 San Diego Chargers 14 Dan Fouts  9 Mark Herrmann 13 Mark Vlasic y 42 Curtis Adams American football 40 Gary Anderson running back 20 Barry Redden 43 Tim Spencer American football 89 Wes Chandler 86 Jamie Holland y 26 Lionel James 81 Timmie Ware 82 Rod Bernstine y 88 Pete Holohan 85 Eric Sievers 80 Kellen Winslow 77 Sam Claphan G 61 Ken Dallafior G 70 James FitzPatrick American football G 68 Gary Kowalski American football T 74 Jim Lachey T 62 Don Macek C 60 Dennis McKnight G 77 Curtis Rouse G 76 Broderick Thompson T 96 Keith Baldwin DE 71 Mike Charles NT 78 Chuck Ehin NT 92 Dee Hardison DE 69 Les Miller American football y DE 75 Joe Phillips American football DE 98 Terry Unrein 99 Lee Williams American football DE 72 Karl Wilson y DE 56 Chip Banks OLB 57 Thomas Benson American football ILB 58 David Brandon y American football OLB 55 Steve Busick ILB 52 Jeff Jackson American football ILB 94 Randy Kirk y ILB 50 Gary Plummer American football ILB 54 Billy Ray Smith Jr. OLB 44 Martin Bayless SS 22 Gill Byrd CB 36 Mike Davis defensive back, born 1956 SS 25 Vencie Glenn FS 27 Daniel Hunter American football CB 34 Elvis Patterson CB 23 Danny Walters American football CB 10 Vince Abbott K  2 Ralf Mojsiejenko P 38 Lou Brock Jr. y CB IR 37 Jeffery Dale S IR 57 Chuck Faucette LB y IR 14 Dan Fouts QB IR 21 Nelson Jones y S IR 51 Woodrow Lowe LB IR 73 Joe MacEsker y T IR 91 Leslie O'Neal DE IR 66 Dan Rosado G IR 24 Kevin Scott running back y RB IR 55 Johnny Taylor linebacker LB IR 84 Al Williams gridiron football WR IR -- Blaise Winter NT IR Posner Jay Sore knee will keep Charles out https://www.newspapers.com/clip/102412189/two-on-list-26-dec-1987/ B1 Escondido Times-Advocate 26 December 1987Gaines Bob Chargers players brace for cold fan reaction https://www.newspapers.com/clip/102412870/dale-injury-23-oct-1987/ D1, D4 Escondido Times-Advocate 23 October 1987Persinger Michael Chargers at Broncos https://www.newspapers.com/clip/101830748/fouts-shoulder-27-dec-1987/ 8C Palm Beach Post 27 December 1987Lee Victor Browns at Chargers https://www.newspapers.com/clip/102413490/jackson-injury-1-nov-1987/ 13C Palm Beach Post 1 November 1987Payton: next contract might be his last https://www.newspapers.com/clip/102413900/oneal-injury-29-july-1987/ Wire reports III-2 Fort Worth Star-Telegram 29 July 1987 Preseason thumbnail|350px|right|Jack Murphy Stadium during a preseason game between the Chargers and the Los Angeles Rams. For the second consecutive season, the Chargers opened their preseason schedule by shutting out the Cowboys. They allowed only 11 first downs and 208 yards, while scoring on a Mark Herrmann touchdown pass to Lionel James and runs by Frank Middleton and Kevin Scott.Charger free agents make it look easy in shutout of Dallas https://www.newspapers.com/clip/102529240/chargers-29-0-cowboys-16-aug-1987/ III-1, III-10 Los Angeles Times 16 August 1987 In the following game, three different quarterbacks (Herrmann, Rick Neuheisel and Vlasic) threw touchdowns to three different receivers (Tim Spencer, Bernstine and Holland). The last of these put San Diego ahead 21–20 with 2:47 to play, but the Rams drove into position for a game-winning field goal with four seconds left.Dufresne Chris Who were those guys in Ram uniforms who beat Chargers 23–21? https://www.newspapers.com/clip/102532659/chargers-23-21-rams-24-aug-1987/ III-1, III-8 Los Angeles Times 24 August 1987 Starting quarterback Dan Fouts hadn't played at all in the first two games. He did so at San Francisco, completing only 3 of 11 passes for 14 yards while getting sacked three times in a quarter of action, but leading the Chargers to their only points, an Abbott field goal.Friend Tom Fouts, Montana come out OK; 49ers win, 17–3 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/102534075/chargers-3-17-49ers-28-aug-1987/ III-11 Los Angeles Times 28 August 1987 Fouts played into the 3rd quarter in the final game, leading three touchdown drives. He threw a 64-yard touchdown pass to Wes Chandler and a 1-yarder to Sam Claphan on a tackle-eligible play, before Spencer scored his second touchdown of the preseason on a 4-yard run.Friend Tom Fouts given time, Chargers win, 30–6 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/102535966/chargers-30-6-jets/ III-1, III-4 Los Angeles Times 5 September 1987 WeekDateOpponentResultRecordVenueAttendance 1 August 15 Dallas Cowboys W 29–0 1–0 Jack Murphy Stadium 48,020 2 August 23 Los Angeles Rams L 21–23 1–1 Jack Murphy Stadium 45,433 3 August 27 at San Francisco 49ers L 3–17 1–2 Candlestick Park 52,733 4 September 4 New York Jets W 30–6 2–2 Jack Murphy Stadium 45,757 1987 NFL Preseason Schedule https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1987/preseason.htm profootballreference.com Regular season Overview San Diego lost their opening game and won the next, leaving them at 1–1 heading into the players' strike (see following section). Their replacement players won all three of their games, before the regulars returned and extended the Charger winning streak to eight games in total, including seven wins by six points or fewer. At 8–1, San Diego had the best record in the NFL, and a two-game lead in the AFC West.NFL standings, week 10, 1987 https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/standings.cgi?week=10&year=1987&wk_league=NFL pro-football-reference.com 25 May 2022 However, they lost their remaining six games and missed the playoffs, being outscored 162–61 during the losing streak. 2022, the 1987 Chargers remain the only post-merger team to miss the playoffs after starting 8–1.8–1 teams from 1970 onwards https://stathead.com/tiny/JREnr stathead.com 25 May 2022 On a 2012 episode of NFL Top 10, theirs was named the #5 worst single season collapse in NFL history.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_OILuF8Tvo8 Worst Collapses NFL Top 10 21 September 2012 A weak offense increasingly hampered the Chargers as the season wore on – they scored only seven offensive touchdowns in their final eight games.Posner Jay Early success just covered up a lack of talent https://www.newspapers.com/clip/102544343/collapse-29-dec-1987/ C1, C2 Escondido Times-Advocate 29 December 1987 They finished the season ranked 27th out of 28 teams for points scored, and 21st for yards gained, while converting a league-worst 30% of their third downs. Fouts struggled with injuries, missing two non-strike games, and posted a passer rating of 70.0, below the league average of 75.2 and his worst for 12 years.NFL season by season passing https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/NFL/passing.htm pro-football-reference.com 25 May 2022Dan Fouts stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/F/FoutDa00.htm pro-football-reference.com 25 May 2022 Chandler led the team with 617 receiving yards, while James, Kellen Winslow and Gary Anderson had over 500 each.1987 NFL receiving https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1987/receiving.htm pro-football-reference.com 26 May 2022 Winslow's 53 catches were the second most in the league for a tight end, earning him a fifth Pro Bowl appearance in his ninth and final season, though his yards per catch dropped to a career-low 9.8.Kellen Winslow stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/W/WinsKe00.htm pro-football-reference.com 26 May 2022 While San Diego's passing yardage was the 8th-best in the league, their rushing yardage ranked 27th, and their average yards-per-carry of 3.3 ranked dead last.1987 NFL standings & team stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1987/ pro-football-reference.com 26 May 2022 Curtis Adams led the team, but his 343 yards ranked only 44th in the league.1987 NFL rushing https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1987/rushing.htm pro-football-reference.com 26 May 2022 The defense was middling, finishing 15th in the NFL for both points conceded and yards allowed. This represented an improvements on recent years – San Diego had ranked 23rd or worse in both categories for six consecutive seasons.Los Angeles/San Diego Chargers franchise encyclopedia https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/sdg/ pro-football-reference.com 26 May 2022 They were stronger against the pass than the run (4th-ranked vs. 24th-ranked). Defensive end Leslie O'Neal, who had been named AP Defensive Rookie of the Year the previous season, missed all of 1987 with an injury.Lewis Marjorie San Diego https://www.newspapers.com/clip/102591167/oneal-sacks-30-aug-1987/ VIII-39 Fort Worth Star-Telegram 30 August 1987 In his absence, the team's sack total dropped from 62 to 45; Lee Williams repeated as sack leader, though his total dropped from 15 in 16 games to 8 in 12 games.1986 San Diego Chargers stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/sdg/1986.htm pro-football-reference.com 26 May 2022 Linebacker Billy Ray Smith led the team with 5 interceptions (he also had 3 sacks), while safety Vencie Glenn was second with 4, one of which he returned 103 yards for a touchdown. On special teams, James ranked fifth in the league with 12.5 yards per punt return, including a touchdown, while Anderson was 17th with 19.7 yards per kickoff return.1987 NFL kick & punt returns https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1987/returns.htm pro-football-reference.com 26 May 2022 New kicker Abbott made 13 of his first 17 field goals, but missed his last five attempts and finished 25th in the league with a 59.1% conversion rate.1987 NFL Kicking & Punting https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1987/kicking.htm pro-football-reference.com 26 May 2022 Punter Ralf Mojsiejenko averaged 42.9 yards per kick, earning the lone Pro Bowl nomination of his career.Ralf Mojsiejenko stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/M/MojsRa20.htm pro-football-reference.com 26 May 2022 NFLPA strike National Football League Players Association#1987 strike The strike begins The 1987 NFL season began under the shadow of a potential National Football League Players Association (NFLPA) strike, with the collective bargaining agreement set to expire and talks stalling as the players pushed for improved free agency rights.The irreplaceable players of the 1987 strike https://nflpa.com/posts/the-irreplaceable-players-of-the-1987-strike nflpa.com 26 May 2022 The NFLPA set a date of September 22 to strike, two weeks into the season; in response, the owners threatened to field replacement teams stocked with free agents.More talks scheduled this afternoon https://www.newspapers.com/clip/102603737/strike-pending-12-sep-1987/ AP 7D Mamaroneck Daily Times 12 September 1987 With this possibility in mind, San Diego was one of several teams who offered optional agreements to players they waived in the build-up to the season, allowing them to rejoin the Chargers in the event of a strike.Posner Jay Chargers offer waived players pacts https://www.newspapers.com/clip/102604250/replacement-contracts-1-sep-1987/ C3 Escondido Times-Advocate 1 September 1987 With no agreement having been reached, the strike went ahead as planned. Chandler, the Chargers' player representative, described the situation as disappointing, but derided existing free agency restrictions as a "form of slavery".Oates Bob With no talk of settlement, NFL players taking a walk https://www.newspapers.com/clip/102652942/chandler-quotes-22-sep-1987/ III-1, III-5 Los Angeles Times 22 September 1987 Head coach Al Saunders sympathized with the fans and stated that he could see both sides of the disagreement. He noted that it was his job to coach replacement players if instructed to do so by the league. At a meeting with his players on the eve of the strike, Saunders encouraged them to continue to stay in shape; the players were in agreement, and scheduled group training sessions at the University of California, San Diego.Posner Jay Chargers disappointed by news of NFL strike https://www.newspapers.com/clip/102606667/strike-begins-22-sep-1987/ C1, C3 Escondido Times-Advocate 22 September 1987 All 45 regular Chargers refused to play for the team once the strike began. This included Fouts, who was not a member of the NFLPA union and stated that he did not consider himself to be on strike. He declined to play on a team stocked with replacement players, noting that he would be risking injury behind an inexperienced offensive line.Posner Jay Fouts avoids pickets as strike continues https://www.newspapers.com/clip/94362310/fouts-on-strike-23-sep-1987/ D1, D4 Escondido Times-Advocate 23 September 1987 Forming the "Re-Chargers" thumbnail|left|Rick Neuheisel, pictured in 2011. After lengthy deliberation, he joined the Chargers as their replacement quarterback. The three strike games of 1987 were the only appearances of his NFL career. The NFL cancelled its slate of week 3 games, and proceeded to form teams of non-union players to replace the regulars from week 4 onwards;Wojciechowski Gene NFL negotiations will resume today, but progress is slow https://www.newspapers.com/clip/102655042/negotiations-24-sep-1987/ III-1, III-10 Los Angeles Times 24 September 1987 director of football operations Steve Ortmayer was primarily responsible for building the Chargers' replacement squad. On September 22, they announced the first 18 players in their new team, including eight they had cut in preseason. By the following day's first practice session, the squad had grown to 38, and 5 more appeared for a later session. While many of the new players had little or no NFL experience, cornerback Elvis Patterson had won the Super Bowl with the New York Giants; he had been released one game into the 1987 season after being badly beaten on a touchdown catch by Chicago Bears receiver Willie Gault. Patterson described his signing as a second chance, and expressed optimism that he could keep his place after the strike was over.Gaines Bob Charger scabs hope to stick around https://www.newspapers.com/clip/102666217/patterson-24-sep-1987/ D1, D3 Escondido Times-Advocate 24 September 1987 At quarterback, the Chargers quickly signed Mike Kelley, formerly of the USFL, but since they also hoped to add someone familiar with their offensive scheme they approached Rick Neuheisel and Tom Flick, both of whom they had cut in training camp. Neuheisel struggled with the choice: on September 22, he decided to play, but changed his mind through loyalty to the striking players, and announced on September 23 that he would continue his studies at USC Law School instead.Posner Jay Rejected QB refuses to cross the line https://www.newspapers.com/clip/102696709/neuheisel-declines-24-sep-1987/ D2 Escondido Times-Advocate 24 September 1987 On September 28, Neuheisel met with both Charger officials and striking players to try and get both sides of the story; the following day, he reaffirmed his decision not to play.Friend Tom Neuheisel decides not to cross the picket line https://www.newspapers.com/clip/102696000/neuheisel-defers-30-sep-1987/ III-2 Los Angeles Times 30 September 1987 Finally, he agreed to sign with the Chargers on September 30, noting that some established NFL veterans had crossed the picket lines.Friend Tom It's a new day and the Chargers have a new quarterback: Neuheisel https://www.newspapers.com/clip/102697851/neuheisel-signs-1-oct-1987/ III-1, III-13 Los Angeles Times 1 October 1987 Many of the established players responded with hostility to their replacements. A group of 39 striking Chargers established a picket line at the new players' first practice session. They gathered on a hill overlooking the facility and jeered the performers throughout; Patterson was greeted with cries of "Where's Willie Gault?"Posner Jay Chargers to strike-breakers: 'Go back to Arena Football' https://www.newspapers.com/clip/102665755/picketers-24-sep-1987/ D1, D2 Escondido Times-Advocate 24 September 1987 Chandler stated that the real players were picketing, and their replacements were "stunt men". Linebacker Gary Plummer said that he couldn't blame the replacements for taking advantage of the situation, but that it was the picketers' job to give them a hard time. Saunders dubbed his new team the "Re-Chargers"; he acknowledged that they were below the regulars in terms of quality, but said, "there's still the thrill of coaching and there's still the challenge."Distel Dave Saunders trying to meet challenge https://www.newspapers.com/clip/102699381/re-chargers-30-sep-1987/ III-1, III-2 Los Angeles Times 30 September 1987 Going into their first replacement game (week 4), the Chargers had seventeen players with NFL experience on their squad while their opponents, the Cincinnati Bengals, had two. The replacement games With the strike continuing, teams of mostly non-union players contested the NFL's slates of games in weeks 4 and 5; the replacement Chargers won both games, with none of the regulars involved. As the strike proceeded, increasing numbers of established stars crossing the picket lines; with the defections weakening their position, the NFLPA relented and called off the strike after 24 days, on October 15. This was one day too late for players to report for duty for week 6, giving the replacements one more game before the majority of them would lose their jobs.Roberts Rich Strikers return, but owners say they can't play https://www.newspapers.com/clip/102711847/strike-ends-16-oct-1987/ III-1, III-10 Los Angeles Times 16 October 1987 The regular Chargers turned up at Jack Murphy Stadium on October 16 ready to work; they were told by Ortmayer that they could use the club's facilities, but would not be paid or permitted to play that week, whereupon they left the building.Plaschke Bill Chargers walk in, walk out https://www.newspapers.com/clip/102713760/chargers-denied-16-oct-1987/ III-1, III-6 Los Angeles Times 16 October 1987 One exception was defensive lineman Terry Unrein, who had contacted club management shortly before the deadline and indicated that he would cross the picket line. Two other players (Mack Moore and Jeffery Dale) re-joined the team but were listed on injured reserve and unable to play, so Unrein was the lone strike-breaker to appear for the Chargers in week 6.Posner Jay Unrein joins the active Chargers https://www.newspapers.com/clip/102714896/unrein-returns-17-oct-1987/ B1, B6 Escondido Times-Advocate 17 October 1987 Despite their opponents (the Los Angeles Raiders) having several regulars available, the Chargers won again to complete a clean sweep of their strike games. All three wins came on the road, and the Chargers trailed at halftime in each game. Neuheisel and Kelley split time at quarterback, with one replacing the other in each game – they finished with 672 combined yards (367 for Neuheisel, 305 for Kelley). The top receiver was Al Williams, with 12 catches for 247 yards and a touchdown; his yardage total was the 8th-highest in the league during the strike games.Most receiving yards, weeks 4–6, 1987 https://stathead.com/tiny/jx109 stathead.com 29 May 2022 No rushers gained 100 yards or more, with Keyvan Jenkins' 88 yards leading the team. San Diego scored 50 points during the three games, 21st in the league; by contrast, they conceded only 39 points, fifth fewest in the league.Most points scored, weeks 4–6, 1987 https://stathead.com/tiny/TWYFh stathead.com 29 May 2022Fewest points conceded, weeks 4–6, 1987 https://stathead.com/tiny/EkEjD stathead.com 29 May 2022 Notable performers included Patterson, whose 75-yard interception return touchdown beat the Raiders in the final minute, and Blaise Winter, whose 4 sacks were tied for 3rd-most in the league during the strike games.Most sacks, weeks 4–6, 1987 https://stathead.com/tiny/cEdsn stathead.com 29 May 2022 After the strike A day after their non-union replacements beat the Raiders, the regular Chargers returned for their first practice at Jack Murphy Stadium. While Chandler described practising with the replacements as the biggest challenge for the returning Chargers, alternate player representative Gill Byrd praised their performances and stated that he expected no animosity between the two groups.Subs help San Diego; Raiders keep Evans https://www.newspapers.com/clip/102758953/byrd-quotes-20-oct-1987/ AP D-3 Redding Record-Searchlight 20 October 1987 When the Chargers beat the Kansas City Chiefs 42–21 in their first post-strike game, Chandler and Fouts were among several players who credited the result to team unity and the regular practice sessions the striking players had run together.Posner Jay Longest winning streak in five years reaches five https://www.newspapers.com/clip/102761021/chargers-42-21-chiefs-26-oct-1987/ C1, C3 Escondido Times-Advocate 26 October 1987 The Chargers quickly trimmed their list of non-union players once the regulars returned. On 20 October, they cut 35 replacement players, retaining 19 on their active roster and three more on injured reserve. A further seven were waived the following week, together with four members of the pre-strike squad, as NFL teams were given increasingly tight squad limits to meet. By 14 November, the pre-strike limit of 45 players had been restored, with nine replacement Chargers remaining.Distel Dave Kirk's coming in through out door https://www.newspapers.com/clip/102752611/kirk-replacement-14-nov-1987/ III-1, III-16 Los Angeles Times 14 November 1987 Patterson won a starting role in 1987,Wolf Bob Adams shows he's on a role with Chargers https://www.newspapers.com/clip/102755678/patterson-starts-5-nov-1987/ III-1, III-10 Los Angeles Times 5 November 1987 and remained with the team through the 1989 season, while Les Miller and Joe Phillips both started games for the Chargers as late as 1990. List of replacement players Click "show" to expand the table below, which displays brief career notes on the 50 replacement Chargers who featured in at least one strike game (Weeks 4, 5 and 6). Players who were on the Chargers' replacement squad but did not feature in any games are not included; neither is Unrein, a union player who crossed the picket lines and played in week 6. Players are taken to have pre-strike or post-strike experience in a league if they featured in at least one regular season or postseason game. Replacement players Name No. Position College Prior experience Strike games After strike Career notes NFL CFL USFL Week 4 Week 5 Week 6 NFL CFL Anthony Anderson 24 DB Grambling State Rookie in 1987, drafted by Chargers in 10th round,Chargers draft picks at a glance https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99290089/anderson-drafted-29-april-1987/ D2 Escondido Times-Advocate 29 April 1987 waived on 29 August.De Luca Chris Charger notes https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99290567/anderson-waived-30-aug-1987/ III-10 Los Angeles Times 30 August 1987 Signed to strike team on 23 September.Friend Tom Numbers same, but faces aren't those of real Chargers https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99461318/strike-squad-ii-24-sep-1987/ III-1, III-8 Los Angeles Times 24 September 1987 Credited with half a sack in week 6.Anthony Anderson 1987 game log https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/A/AndeAn21/gamelog/1987/ pro-football-reference.com 7 April 2022 Cut on 20 October.Gaines Bob 19 irregulars stay on Chargers' roster https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99291944/35-cut-21-oct-1987/ C1, C2 Escondido Times-Advocate 21 October 1987 Monte Bennett 69 DE Kansas State Started 6 games for the 1981 New Orleans Saints as an undrafted rookie,Monte Bennett stats https://www.profootballarchives.com/playerb/benn02000.html profootballarchives.com 8 April 2022 released before the 1982 season.Saints make roster cuts https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99345212/bennett-cut-15-aug-1982/ UPI B2 St. Lucie News Tribune 15 August 1982 Played for the USFL's Oakland Invaders from 1983–85. Signed by the Chargers on 28 May 1987,Posner Jay Do they need a 'dominant' running back? https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99346424/bennett-offseason-29-may-1987/ C7 Escondido Times-Advocate 29 May 1987 but cut on 7 September.Posner Jay Bernstine placed on injured list https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99346987/september-cuts-8-sep-1987/ C2 Escondido Times-Advocate 8 September 1987 Signed to strike team on 23 September. Cut again after strike games, on 20 October. Ed Berry 38 CB Utah State 7th-round draft pick; played for the 1986 Green Bay Packers as a rookie;Ed Berry stats https://www.profootballarchives.com/playerb/berr01400.html profootballarchives.com 8 April 2022 cut on 7 September 1987.Transactions https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99349632/berry-waived-8-sep-1987/ AP 2B Wausau Daily Herald 8 September 1987 Signed to Chargers' strike team on 22 September. Missed week 6 with hamstring injury.NFL injury report https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99350117/berry-injury-17-oct-1987/ AP B6 Escondido Times-Advocate 17 October 1987 Cut on 20 October. Played in the CFL from 1988–96, scored in the 1991 Grey Cup win;Rocket leads Argos to Grey Cup crown https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99353943/grey-cup-int-25-nov-1991/ AP C-7 North County Times 25 November 1991 won second Canadian title in 1996.1996 Toronto Argonauts https://www.profootballarchives.com/1996cfltor.html profootballarchives.com 9 April 2022 Carl Brazley 48 S Western Kentucky Spent seven years in the CFL (1980–86).Carl Brazley stats https://www.profootballarchives.com/playerb/braz01200.html profootballarchives.com 9 April 2022 Signed for the Chargers on 28 May 1987,Posner Jay Chargers notes https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99390447/many-signings-28-may-1987/ D2 Escondido Times-Advocate 28 May 1987 but cut on 26 August after an error in a preseason game.Friend Tom Fouts ready to start against 49ers https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99390994/brazley-out-26-aug-1987/ III-6 Los Angeles Times 26 August 1987 Signed to strike team on 23 September. Had an interception in week 5.Posner Jay Chargers notes https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99391897/brazley-int-12-oct-1987/ C3 Escondido Times-Advocate 12 October 1987 Cut on 20 October. Returned to Canada for a further five seasons (1988–92). Grey Cup winner in 1983 and 1991.1983 Toronto Argonauts https://www.profootballarchives.com/1983cfltor.html profootballarchives.com 9 April 20221991 Toronto Argonauts https://www.profootballarchives.com/1991cfltor.html profootballarchives.com 9 April 2022 Bruce Davis 83 WR Baylor 2nd-round pick for Cleveland in 1984 draft; used primarily as a kickoff returner in his rookie year.Bruce Davis stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/D/DaviBr22.htm pro-football-reference.com 19 April 2022 Waived on 30 August 1985.Meyer Ed Wide receiver Davis let go https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100075796/davis-browns-31-aug-1985/ B6 Akron beacon Journal 31 August 1985 Released by the CFL's Calgary Stampeders on 3 June 1987 and the Chargers on 26 August.CFL moves https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100077064/davis-stampeders-4-june-1987/ CP D6 Vancouver Sun 4 June 1987 Signed to strike team on 23 September. Registered no statistics during his lone appearance. Cut on 20 October. David Diaz-Infante 63 C San Jose State Undrafted rookie in 1987,David Diaz-Infante stats https://www.profootballarchives.com/playerd/diaz00200.html profootballarchives.com 9 April 2022 waived by Chargers on 29 August. Signed to strike team on 22 September.Appleman Marc Non-union players are happy for the chance https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99460380/strike-squad-i-23-sep-1987/ III-1, III-9 Los Angeles Times 23 September 1987 Was long snapper for a game-winning field goal in week 4.Posner Jay Chargers won't throw victory back https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99396173/chargers-10-9-bengals-5-oct-1987/ C1, C2 Escondido Times-Advocate 5 October 1987 Subsequently played in the WLAF, CFL, NFL and XFL. Won two Super Bowls (XXXII and XXXIII) with the Broncos as their long snapper.1997 Denver Broncos roster https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/den/1997_roster.htm pro-football-reference.com 9 April 20221998 Denver Broncos roster https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/den/1998_roster.htm pro-football-reference.com 9 April 2022 Chuck Faucette 57 LB Maryland Rookie in 1987, drafted by Giants in the 10th round,Chuck Faucette career game log https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/F/FaucCh20/gamelog/ pro-football-reference.com 9 April 2022 waived on 7 September.Transactions https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99412092/faucette-cut-8-sep-1987/ AP 2B Wausau Daily Herald 8 September 1987 Signed to Chargers' strike team on 2 October.Friend Tom Chargers notes https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99463279/faucette-strike-team-3-oct-1987/ 2A Los Angeles Times 3 October 1987 Missed third strike game with knee injury. Retained on injured reserve list after strike ended.Wolf Bob Allert becomes a strike casualty https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99414727/ir-replacements-4-nov-1987/ III-6 Los Angeles Times 4 November 1987 Started the first eight games for San Diego in 1988, but a fractured vertebra in his neck ended his career.Posner Jay Chargers notes https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99415905/faucette-injury-29-oct-1988/ B6 Escondido Times-Advocate 29 October 1988 Greg Feasel 67 T Abilene Christian Cut in preseason by three different NFL teamsGodich Mark Just 2 locals will play in NFL https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99424018/feasel-seahawks-31-aug-1980/ 8-F Abilene Reporter-News 31 August 1980Football https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99424354/feasel-eagles-1-aug-1981/ 10A Camden Courier-Post 1 August 1981Transactions https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99424706/feasel-oilers-24-aug-1982/ C3 Arizona Republic 24 August 1982 before playing for the USFL's Denver Gold for three seasons (1983–85).Greg Feasel stats https://www.profootballarchives.com/playerf/feas00400.html profootballarchives.com 9 April 2022 Played in 15 games for the 1986 Green Bay Packers, then traded on 31 August 1987 to the Oilers,Oilers get Greg Feasel in trade with Green Bay https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99425607/feasel-packers-1-sep-1987/ AP 4C Wichita Falls Times-Record 1 September 1987 who waived him a week later.NFL Transactions https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99425989/feasel-waived-8-sep-1987/ III-2 Wisconsin State Journal 8 September 1987 After strike games, cut by Chargers on 27 October.Plaschke Bill Chargers' cuts cross strike line https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99426955/second-post-strike-cuts-28-oct-1987/ III-1, III-2 Los Angeles Times Kevin Ferguson 87 TE Virginia Undrafted rookie in 1987, signed by Chargers on 25 July.Posner Jay Chargers notes https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99465292/ferguson-signed-26-jul-1987/ D7 Escondido Times-Advocate 26 July 1987 Waived on 26 August.Friend Tom Chargers notes https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99466911/ferguson-waived-27-aug-1987/ III-4 Los Angeles Times 27 August 1987 Signed to strike team on 23 September. Caught no passes in his three games, cut on 20 October and did not play again.Kevin Ferguson stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/F/FergKe21.htm pro-football-reference.com 10 April 2022 Jeff Gaffney 4 K Virginia Undrafted rookie in 1987, signed by Chargers on 27 May. Lost training camp battle to Abbott.Chargers trade Benirschke https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99475506/benirschke-out-2-sep-1987/ AP 45 Pacific Daily News 2 September 1987 Signed to strike team on 22 September. Made a late game-winning field goal in week 4. Overall, made 3 of 6 field goals and 4 of 5 extra points; cut on 20 October and did not play again.Jeff Gaffney stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/G/gaffnjef01.htm pro-football-reference.com 10 April 2022 Joe Goebel 68 C UCLA Rookie in 1987, drafted by Chargers in 10th round, Retired on 27 July to become a pilot, without having attended training camp.Transactions https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99480829/goebel-retires-28-july-1978/ 7 Martinsville Reporter-Times 28 July 1987Posner Jay Six draft choices may make club https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99482114/draft-review-26-aug-1987/ D3 Escondido Times-Advocate 26 August 1987 Signed to strike team on 28 September.Friend Tom Picture this: Ortmayer likes Charger roster https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99482919/goebel-signs-29-sep-1987/ III-4 Los Angeles Times 29 September 1987 Cut on 20 October. Willard Goff 76 DT West Texas A&M Featured in 7 games for the 1985 Atlanta Falcons as an undrafted rookie;Willard Goff stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/G/GoffWi20.htm pro-football-reference.com 10 April 2022 waived on 26 August 1986.Transactions https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99497144/goff-falcons-27-aug-1986/ C2 Allentown Morning Call 27 August 1987 Spent time with both the Raiders and 49ers during the 1987 preseason.Knee injuries force Andrews to retire https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99497783/raiders-to-49ers-1-sep-1987/ Wire reports II-3 Fort Worth Star-Telegram 1 September 1987 Signed to Chargers' strike team on 22 September; cut on 20 October and did not play again. Walt Harris 46 S Stanford Played minor league baseball in 1986.Walt Harris minor league stats https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/player.fcgi?id=harris003wal baseball-reference.com 11 April 2022 On the Chargers' roster during the 1987 preseason, but cut on 7 September. Signed to strike team on 22 September. Recovered a fumble in week 6.Walt Harris stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HarrWa20.htm pro-football-reference.com 11 April 2022 Cut on 27 October. Returned to minor league baseball for three more seasons (1988–90). Harry Holt 85 TE Arizona Two CFL All-Star nominations in five season with BC Lions.Wright will start for Packers Saturday https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99539858/holt-to-packers-18-aug-1987/ AP III-1 Wisconsin State Journal 18 August 1987 Signed for Cleveland in 1983;Sports briefs https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99536488/holt-to-browns-20-may-1983/ 10 Grand Prairie Daily Herald 20 May 1983 caught 63 passes for 837 yards and 5 touchdowns;Harry Holt stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HoltHa00.htm pro-football-reference.com 11 April 2022 released on 12 August 1987.Harry Holt given release by Browns https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99537250/holt-out-cleveland-13-aug-1987/ AP 12 Marion Star 11 April 2022 Briefly on Packers' roster.Transactions https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99564798/holt-waived-packers-8-sep-1987/ AP 2B Wausau Daily Herald 8 September 1987 Signed to Chargers' strike team on 29 September.National Football League notes https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99567953/holt-replacement-30-sep-1987/ 9C Camden Courier-Post 30 September 1987 Caught 7 passes for 56 yards. Cut on 20 October. Darrel Hopper 47 CB USC Undrafted rookie in 1985.Darrel Hopper 1987 game log https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HoppDa20/gamelog/1987/ pro-football-reference.com 20 April 2022 Preseason cut for Seattle in 1985 and Edmonton in 1987.Transactions https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100079666/hopper-21-aug-1985/ 2D Anderson Independent-Mail 21 August 1985Axe falls in the CFL https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100080092/hopper-edmonton-7-jun-1987/ News services 97 Vancouver Province 7 June 1987 Signed by Chargers on 29 July;Friend Tom Fouts' back is so-so; outlook is uncertain https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100080535/hopper-in-30-july-1987/ III-3 Los Angeles Times 30 July 1987 waived on 26 August. Signed to strike team on 22 September. Cut on 27 October, but briefly returned for one further game (Week 11).Posner Jay Chargers activate 3 defenders https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100081756/hopper-cameo-28-nov-1987/ B2 Escondido Times-Advocate 28 November 1987 Played for CFL's Ottawa Rough Riders in 1989–90.Darrell Hopper stats https://www.profootballarchives.com/playerh/hopp00400.html profootballarchives.com 20 April 2022 Mike Hudson 28 S Oklahoma State Undrafted rookie in 1987.Mike Hudson stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HudsMi20.htm pro-football-reference.com 12 April 2022 Spent time with Tampa Bay in training camp, but released on 27 July.McMurphy Brett Training camp notebook https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99632153/hudson-tampa-28-july-1978/ 7-C Tampa Tribune 28 July 1987 Failed physical with Minnesota due to pneumonia.Vikings finally sign Berry https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99633062/hudson-pneumonia-12-aug-1987/ AP 13 Winona Daily News 12 August 1987 Signed to Chargers' strike team on 23 September. Cut on 20 October. Mike Humiston 50 LB Weber State Made the 1981 Bills’ squad as an undrafted rookie.Mike Humiston stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HumiMi20.htm pro-football-reference.com 20 April 2022 Waived in 1982;NFL strike seen Tuesday unless accord reached https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100104529/humiston-bills-16-sep-1982/ 30 Newport Daily Press 16 September 1987 was with the Colts from 1982 to 1984, but missed all of 1983 due to injury.Baltimore's Humiston 'biting at bit' to play https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100104957/humiston-ankle-22-oct-1983/ B-9 Redding Searchlight 22 October 1983 Waived on 20 August 1985.Colts cut roster to 60 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100106250/humiston-colts-20-aug-1985/ UPI 8 Franklin Daily Journal 20 August 1985 Joined the Arizona Outlaws but did not play for them as the USFL ceased operations in 1986.Ex-Indy Colt haunts old team https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100107172/humiston-deputy-sheriff-9-nov-1987/ AP 11 Lincoln Journal Star 9 November 1987 Was a deputy sheriff before being signed to the Chargers' strike team on 28 September 1987.Humiston to play for the Chargers https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100108074/humiston-in-30-sep-1987/ D-1 Redding Record Searchlight 30 September 1987 Retained for a month after the strike, recovering a key fumble in week 9. Waived on 25 November.Transactions https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100109031/humiston-waived-26-nov-1987/ 90 Boston Globe 26 November 1987 Brian Ingram 52 LB Tennessee 4th-round pick for New England in 1982 draft; played little during his first four seasons.Borges Ron Ingram still on the outside https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99680007/ingram-report-8-aug-1986/ 40 Boston Globe 8 August 1986 Missed entire 1986 season with knee injury.Borges Ron Trade Collins? Nonsense – Steinberg https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99680572/ingram-ir-27-aug-1986/ 38 Boston Globe 27 August 1986Brian Ingram stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/I/IngrBr20.htm pro-football-reference.com 13 April 2022 Waived by Patriots on 7 September 1987.Pats' shroud over cuts lifted https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99681241/ingram-waived-ne-9-sep-1987/ AP 13 Bangor Daily News 9 September 1987 Signed to Chargers' strike team on 28 September. Sustained a hamstring injury in week 4;San Diego at Bucs https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99682941/ingram-injured-11-oct-1987/ 2-D Tampa Tribune 11 Oct 1987 placed on injured reserve, then released on 25 November.Gaines Bob Elway considered 'the best' https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99684055/ingram-cut-26-nov-1987/ D12 Escondido Times-Advocate 26 November 1987 Jeff Jackson 52 LB Auburn 8th-round pick for Atlanta in 1984 draft;Jeff Jackson career game log https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/J/JackJe20/gamelog/ pro-football-reference.com 20 April 2022 featured in 27 games, then waived on 18 August 1986.Transactions https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100111638/jackson-falcons-19-aug-1986/ AP 7 Selma Times-Journal 19 August 1986 Signed by Chargers on 23 April 1987;Posner Jay Coach likes Jaworski, but not as starter https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100112963/jackson-in-24-april-1987/ C1 Escondido Times-Advocate 24 April 1987 cut on 7 September. Signed to strike team on 23 September. Credited with a sack in week 6. Retained through the 1988 season totalling 25 appearances and 7 starts; waived on 29 August 1989.Chargers cut three, six more must go https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100114058/jackson-out-29-aug-1989/ D1 Escondido Times-Advocate 29 August 1989 Played in CFL from 1991–93.Jeff Jackson stats https://www.profootballarchives.com/playerj/jack06600.html profootballarchives.com 20 April 2022 Keyvan Jenkins 39 FB UNLV Spent three years in the CFL (1984–86).Keyvan Jenkins stats https://www.profootballarchives.com/playerj/jenk02000.html profootballarchives.com 13 April 2022 May 5, 2023 https://web.archive.org/web/20230505154441/https://www.profootballarchives.com/playerj/jenk02000.html dead Signed for the Chargers on 12 May 1987,Chargers sign nine free agents https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99693888/jenkins-in-13-may-1987/ D2 Escondido Times-Advocate 13 May 1987 but waived on 26 August. Signed to strike team on 23 September. Rushed 22 times for 88 yards, and caught 8 passes for 40 yards.Keyvan Jenkins stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/J/JenkKe21.htm pro-football-reference.com 14 April 2022 Featured in two games for the 1988 Kansas City Chiefs, but eventually returned to Canada for a further five seasons (1990–94). Grey Cup winner in 1985 and 1992.1985 British Columbia Lions https://www.profootballarchives.com/1985cflbc.html profootballarchives.com 14 April 20221992 Calgary Stampeders https://www.profootballarchives.com/1992cflcal.html profootballarchives.com 14 April 2022 James Johnson 57 LB San Diego State 4th-round draft pick for the 1986 Lions; featured in 11 games as a rookie, but started none.James Johnson stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/J/JohnJa22.htm pro-football-reference.com 14 April 2022 Waived on 1 September 1987.Sylvester Kurt Vet Thompson waived by Lions https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99744469/johnson-cut-2-sep-1987/ 1D Detroit Free Press 2 September 1987 Joined San Francisco strike team and played for 49ers in week 4.49er roster https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99746293/johnson-to-49ers-24-sep-1987/ G-7 San Francisco Examiner 24 September 1987 Traded to San Diego on 13 October and played for Chargers in week 6.Posner Jay Chargers' Mack Moore crosses the picket line https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99747269/two-cross-lines-14-oct-1978/ D1, D4 Escondido Times-Advocate 14 October 1987 Cut on 20 October. Mike Kelley 10 QB Georgia Tech 6th-round pick for Atlanta in 1982 draft; cut in preseason.Mike Kelley stats https://www.profootballarchives.com/playerk/kell05000.html profootballarchives.com 14 April 2022Heys Sam Falcons couldn't afford development of Kelley https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99756021/kelley-falcons-5-sep-1982/ 4-B Atlanta Constitution 5 September 1982 Spent three seasons in the USFL (1983–85), mostly with Memphis Showboats, and 1986 in the CFL. Signed to Chargers' strike team on 23 September. Passed for 305 yards in total, with one touchdown.Mike Kelley career game logs https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/K/KellMi21/gamelog/ pro-football-reference.com 14 April 2022 Cut on 20 October. Joined CFL's Memphis Mad Dogs in 1995; cut in preseason and retired.Harding Thomas Poor performances push Kelley to retire https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99758839/kelley-retires-24-june-1995/ D6 Memphis Commercial Appeal 24 June 1995 Randy Kirk 94 LB San Diego State Undrafted rookie in 1987,Randy Kirk stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/K/KirkRa20.htm profootballarchives.com 21 April 2022 waived by Giants on 1 September.Glauber Bob Notes https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100147823/kirk-giants-1-sep-1987/ D3 White Plains Journal News 1 September 1987 Signed to strike team on 22 September. Had the only start and only sack of his career in week 6. Stayed with the Chargers through the 1988 season and returned for part of 1991; overall, played in 157 games for six different NFL teams in a 13-year career (1987–99), serving mainly as a long snapper.Fleeting fame unwanted by 49ers' trio https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100149952/kirk-long-snapper-16-dec-1999/ D3 Fresno Bee 16 December 1999 Frank Middleton 30 RB Florida A&M Undrafted, preseason cut for 1983 Seahawks.Frank Middleton stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/M/MiddFr00/gamelog/ pro-football-reference.com 15 April 2022Jackson in camp https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99761855/middleton-seahawks-26-july-1983/ Staff and wire reports 13 Spokane Chronicle 26 July 1983 Played for Colts in 1984 and 1985.Tampa Bay Bucs sign Middleton https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99763258/middleton-switch-26-feb-1987/ 2C Florida Today 25 February 1986 Preseason cut for Buccaneers in 1986.Miscellaneous https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99763502/middleton-bucs-26-aug-1986/ 2C Fort Myers News-Press 26 August 1986 Joined Chargers in 1987, waived on 8 September.Friend Tom Benson, Chargers to take things year at a time https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99763870/middleton-chargers-9-sep-1987/ III-2 Los Angeles Times 9 September 1987 Signed to strike team on 28 September. Rushed for 61 yards and a touchdown in week 4, but only 13 yards afterwards. Cut on 20 October. Les Miller 75 DE Fort Hays State Undrafted rookie in 1987,Les Miller stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/M/MillLe20.htm pro-football-reference.com 15 April 2022 cut from Saints' squad on 7 September.Transactions https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99783908/miller-saints-8-sep-1987/ 13 Arizona Daily Star 8 September 1987 Worked in a factory for $5 per hour before being signed to the Chargers' strike team; retained his place on the team after the strike ended, and scored on a fumble recovery the following week.Miller helps Chargers dump KC https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99784249/chargers-42-21-chiefs-26-oct-1987/ AP 9 Salina Journal 26 October 1987 Stayed with the Chargers through the 1990 season, and returned to San Diego for part of 1994. Overall, had 152 appearances, 51 starts and 20 sacks during a 12-year NFL career. Pat Miller 52 LB Florida 5th-round pick for 49ers in 1986 draft; cut in preseason.Jenkins Jim 49ers release McLemore, 6 other players https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99788460/miller-49ers-27-aug-1986/ C3 Sacramento Bee 27 August 1986 Joined Raiders in 1987 offseason, but cut on 7 September.Transactions https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99788759/pat-miller-raiders-8-sep-1987/ II-6 Fort Worth Star-Telegram 8 September 1987 Signed to Chargers' strike team on 13 October. After strike, released on 27 October.Transactions https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99789222/more-releases-28-oct-1987/ AP B2 Paducah Sun 28 October 1987 Re-signed by Chargers on 22 February 1988;Chargers sign 6 replacements https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99790613/six-resigned-23-feb-1988/ III-6 Los Angeles Times 23 February 1988 played in 8 games that season.Pat Miller stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/M/MillPa20/gamelog/ pro-football-reference.com 15 April 2022 Played for Ottawa in 1989–90.Pat Miller stats https://www.profootballarchives.com/playerm/mill12200.html profootballarchives.com 15 April 2022 Tim Moffett 86 WR Mississippi 3rd-round pick for Raiders in 1985 draft. Caught 11 passes in two seasons;Tim Moffett stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/M/MoffTi00.htm pro-football-reference.com 15 April 2022 waived on 1 September 1987.Update https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99802464/moffett-raiders-2-sep-1987/ 7E Charlotte Observer 2 September 1987 Signed to strike team on 23 September. Totalled 5 catches for 80 yards and a touchdown. Cut on 20 October. Calvin Muhammad 81 WR Texas Southern 12th-round pick for Raiders in 1982 draft;Calvin Muhammed stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/M/MuhaCa00.htm pro-football-reference.com 15 April 2022 won Super Bowl XVIII in his second year.1983 Los Angeles Raiders roster https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/rai/1983_roster.htm pro-football-reference.com 15 April 2022 Traded to Washington and posted over 700 receiving yards in only 10 games,Transactions https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99811187/muhammad-trade-4-oct-1984/ C2 Hartford Courant 4 October 1984 but less productive in 1985.Washington wide receiver out with injury https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99812134/muhammad-washington-28-nov-1985/ UPI H-4 Honolulu Advertiser 28 November 1985 Spent part of 1987 in Toronto while struggling with injuries; released on 18 September.Argos release Calvin Muhammad https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99814718/muhammad-out-of-toronto-19-sep-1987/ CP F6 Edmonton Journal 19 September 1987 Signed to strike team on 23 September. Caught 2 passes for 87 yards. Cut on 20 October. Rick Neuheisel 7 QB UCLA Started a total of 32 games for the USFL's San Antonio Gunslingers over 1984 and 1985.Rick Neuheisel https://www.profootballarchives.com/playern/neuh00200.html profootballarchives.com 16 April 2022 Joined Chargers on 24 April 1987;Posner Jay Chargers notes https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99850852/neuheisel-in-25-apr-1987/ B5 Escondido Times-Advocate 25 April 1987 cut on 7 September. Initially declined offer to join replacement team, but signed on 30 September.Posner Jay Rick Neuheisel agrees to play quarterback for the Chargers https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99852054/neuheisel-back-1-october-1987/ D1, D5 Escondido Times-Advocate 1 October 1987 Threw for 367 yards, with a touchdown and an interception; also ran for a touchdown.Rick Neuheisel stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/N/NeuhRi20.htm pro-football-reference.com 16 April 2022 Cut on 27 October. Elvis Patterson 34 CB Kansas Undrafted free agent signed to 1984 Giants roster;Elvis Patterson stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/P/PattEl21.htm pro-football-reference.com 16 April 2022 started on their Super Bowl-winning team two seasons later.1986 New York Giants roster https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/nyg/1986_roster.htm pro-football-reference.com 16 April 2022 Cut by New York after their 1987 opener.Bucs get Sileo in supplemental draft https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99863702/patterson-giants-17-sep-1987/ Wire reports III-11 Fort Worth Star-Telegram 17 September 1987 Signed to Chargers' strike team on 22 September. Scored game-winning touchdown in week 6.Plaschke Bill Chargers stun Raiders; take division lead https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99870196/chargers-23-17-raiders-19-oct-1987/ III-1, III-7 Los Angeles Times 19 October 1987 Remained in San Diego through the 1989 season; finished career in 1993 with Super Bowl XXVIII-winning Cowboys.1993 Dallas Cowboys roster https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/dal/1993_roster.htm pro-football-reference.com 16 April 2022 Duane Pettitt 93 DE San Diego Undrafted rookie in 1987, signed by Chargers on 5 May.Balancia Donna Aztec free agents Lauter, Pettitt to get shot with Chargers https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99879801/pettitt-signed-6-may-1987/ D8 Escondido Times-Advocate 6 May 1987 Waived on 26 August. Signed to strike team on 22 September. Cut on 20 October. Named one of the league's best replacement defensive linemen by The St. Lucie News-Tribune.Van Valkenburg Mal News Tribune's NFL All-Replacement team https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99881207/all-replacement-team-28-oct-1987/ C1 St. Lucie News Tribune 28 October 1987 Joe Phillips 75 DE SMU 4th-round pick for Vikings in 1986 draft; started one game as a rookie.Joe Phillips stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/P/PhilJo20.htm pro-football-reference.com 17 April 2022 Cut on 7 September 1987.Sansevere Robert The final cut https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99909192/phillips-vikings-8-sep-1987/ 1D Minneapolis Star Tribune 8 September 1987 Signed to Chargers' strike team on 23 September. Had two sacks during the strike games.Joe Phillips 1987 game log https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/P/PhilJo20/gamelog/1987/ pro-football-reference.com 17 April 2022 Retained after the strike ended.Cook Ron Some replacements became irreplaceable https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99909718/replacement-successes-8-jan-1988/ VIII-40 Chicago Tribune 8 January 1988 Stayed with Chargers through 1991 season; went on to have 14-year NFL career, with 200 appearances, 152 starts and 24 1 2 sacks. Jeff Powell 31 RB Tennessee 4th-round draft pick for the 1986 Bears;Jeff Powell stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/P/PoweJe21.htm pro-football-reference.com 16 April 2022 cut on 19 August.Pierson Don New jobs for some in Lake Forest debut https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99882557/powell-bears-19-aug-1986/ IV-4 Chicago Tribune 19 August 1986 Signed for Chargers on 12 March 1987;Chargers sign four free agents https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99883034/four-signed-12-may-1987/ D8 Escondido Times-Advocate 12 March 1987 cut on 18 August.Gaines Bob Chargers notes https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99883488/19-august-1987-powell-cut/ C5 Escondido Times-Advocate 19 August 1987 Signed to strike team on 22 September. Had no carries in his single game. Cut on 20 October. Stacy Price 53 LB Arkansas State Undrafted rookie in 1987, cut from Ottawa's squad in preseason.Most 'identifiable' Rough Rider gone https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99884922/price-canada-18-jun-1987/ CP 14 Red Deer Advocate 18 June 1987 Signed to Chargers' strike team on 23 September. Cut after strike games, on 20 October. Joe Prokop 8 P Cal Poly-Pomona Undrafted in 1984; first started for the 1985 Packers.Bucky Scribner out, Joe Prokop in as Packer punter https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99913043/prokop-history-4-sep-1985/ AP C-1, C-3 Appleton Post-Crescent 4 September 1985 Cut midseason after disappointing performances.Prokop is given the boot https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99913589/prokop-packers-6-nov-1985/ AP B1 Racine Journal Times 6 November 1985 Signed for Chargers on 13 April 1987;Chargers sign up 10 free agents https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99914242/prokop-in-14-april-1987/ C2 Escondido Times-Advocate 14 April 1987 cut on 15 September.Scoreboard https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99913862/prokop-out-16-sep-1987/ 10 Greenwood Index-Journal 16 September 1987 Signed to strike team on 22 September. Punted 17 times at an average of 38.5 yards.Joe Prokop stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/P/ProkJo21.htm pro-football-reference.com 17 April 2022 Cut on 20 October. Punted for four different teams from 1988–92. Tag Rome 82 WR ULM Played for two different CFL teams from 1984–86.Tag Rome stats https://www.profootballarchives.com/playerr/rome00400.html pro-football-reference.com 17 April 2022 Signed for Chargers on 12 March 1987; waived on 29 August. Signed to strike team on 28 September. Caught 6 passes for 49 yards.Tag Rome stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/R/RomeTa20.htm pro-football-reference.com 17 April 2022 Cut on 20 October. Dan Rosado 66 G Northern Illinois Graduated from college in 1979, but didn't play professional football until 1985 with the USFL's Houston Gamblers.McEwen Bill USFL success story https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100200104/rosado-usfl-24-mar-1985/ D12 Fresno Bee 24 March 1985 Cut by the Dolphins in preseason in both 1986 and 1987.Shula reworks defense https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100201536/rosado-dolphins-2-sep-1986/ 1C, 7C South Florida Sun Sentinel 2 September 1986Pro football https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100201962/rosado-dolphins-again-8-sep-1987/ D 4 Louisville Courier-Journal 8 September 1987 Signed to Chargers' strike team on 23 September. Retained and played in week 7, then moved to injured reserve. Played in 12 games in 1988, starting in 11.Dan Rosado stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/R/RosaDa20.htm pro-football-reference.com 21 April 2022 Cut on 26 August 1989.James, Abbott among eight cut by Chargers https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100203243/rosado-out-27-aug-1989/ AP C8 Torrance Daily Breeze 27 August 1989 Curtis Rouse 77 T Chattanooga 11th-round pick for Minnesota in 1982 draft; played in 58 games and started 29 during five seasons with the Vikings.Curtis Rouse stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/R/RousCu20.htm pro-football-reference.com 21 April 2022 Cut on 7 September 1987.Brown, Rouse, Bess among Vikings cuts https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100211228/rouse-vikings-8-sep-1987/ AP 2B Bismarck Tribune 8 September 1987 Signed to Chargers' strike team on 30 September.NFL team-by-team update https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100211785/rouse-in-1-october-1987/ D-7 Modesto Bee 1 October 1987 Played in seven further games after the strike. Traded to Atlanta in 1988 due to a lack of fitness; the Falcons cut him on 11 August, and he did not play again.Sheeley Glenn Falcons 'trim' 344-pounder https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100212679/rouse-to-falcons-12-aug-1988/ 1E, 9E Atlanta Constitution 12 August 1988 Martin Sartin 35 RB Long Beach State Undrafted rookie in 1986;Martin Sartin stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SartMa20.htm pro-football-reference.com 17 April 2022 signed for the Raiders but spent the entire year on injured reserve;Cox Bob Vince Evans among 'new' Raider players https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99928981/sartin-raiders-22-sep-1987/ B3 San Pedro News-Pilot 22 September 1987 cut on 1 September.Pro football https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99929856/sartin-raiders-cut-2-sep-1987/ III-11 Los Angeles Times 2 September 1987 Signed to Chargers' strike team on 23 September. Had 19 carries for 52 yards and a touchdown. Cut on 20 October. Played for the CFL's Hamilton Tiger Cats in 1988.Martin Sartin stats https://www.profootballarchives.com/players/sart00400.html profootballarchives.com 17 April 2022 King Simmons 41 S Texas Tech 12th-round pick for Browns in 1986 draft;King Simmons stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SimmKi20.htm pro-football-reference.com 17 April 2022 Spent the entire year on injured reserve;Transactions https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99935891/simmons-ir-27-aug-1986/ 18 Latrobe Bulletin 27 August 1987 cut on 1 September 1987.Transactions https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99935426/simmons-browns-cut-2-sep-1987/ 3-C Billings Gazette 2 September 1987 Signed to Chargers' strike team on 23 September. Had 1 1 2 sacks across the three games. Cut on 20 October. Played for the CFL's Hamilton Tiger Cats in 1988.King Simmons stats https://www.profootballarchives.com/players/simm03000.html profootballarchives.com 17 April 2022 Tony Simmons 97 DE Tennessee 12th round pick for the Chargers in 1985; featured in 13 games during his rookie season.Tony Simmons career game log https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SimmTo20/gamelog/ pro-football-reference.com 17 April 2022 Spent 1986 on injured reserve;Posner Jay Chargers notes https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99939662/simmons-ir-3-dec-1986/ C3 Escondido Times-Advocate 3 December 1986 waived on 29 August 1987. Signed to strike team on 23 September. Credited with a sack in week 6. Cut on 20 October. Played for BC Lions in 1989 and 1990.Tony Simmons stats https://www.profootballarchives.com/players/simm04600.html profootballarchives.com 17 April 2022 Emil Slovacek 72 T Stephen F. Austin Undrafted rookie in 1987, signed for the Chargers on 5 May. Cut on 26 August. Signed to the strike team in September,Offensive line https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99463673/feasel-strike-1-oct-1987/ III-13 Los Angeles Times 1 October 1987 but deactivated before the third game.Posner Jay Chargers big underdogs vs. Raiders in Strikeball finale https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99945192/chargers-underdogs-18-oct-1987/ D1, D2 Escondido Times-Advocate 18 October 1987 Todd Spencer 32 RB USC Undrafted; signed by Steelers and used mainly as a kickoff returner in 1984 and 1985.Todd Spencer stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SpenTo00.htm pro-football-reference.com 18 April 2022 Allowed to become a free agent in February 1986; did not play the following season.In the district https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99947231/spencer-steelers-4-feb-1986/ 28 Pittsburgh Post-Gazette 4 February 1986 Signed to strike team on 23 September. Rushed 14 times for 24 yards and caught 2 passes for 47 yards. Cut on 20 October. John Stadnik 65 C Western Illinois Undrafted in the NFL; cut by Seahawks on 18 July 1983.Transactions https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99966746/stadnik-seahawks-19-july-1983/ 12 Lincoln Journal Star 19 July 1983 Played for two different Arizona-based USFL franchises in 1984 and 1985.John Stadnik stats https://www.profootballarchives.com/players/stad00200.html profootballarchives.com 18 April 2022 June 1, 2022 https://web.archive.org/web/20220601152229/https://www.profootballarchives.com/players/stad00200.html dead Signed for Chargers on 13 April 1987;Transactions https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99966827/stadnik-free-agent-14-apr-1987/ 5D Miami Herald 14 April 1987 waived on 29 August. Signed to strike team on 23 September. Cut again on 20 October. Anthony Steels 45 RB Nebraska Played for the USFL's Breakers franchise in 1983 and 1984.Anthony Steels stats https://www.profootballarchives.com/players/stee01400.html pro-football-reference.com 18 April 2022 Played for both the Chargers (who placed him on waivers midseason)Gaines Bob Steels tries to put his career on track https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99967622/steelers-article-30-sep-1987/ D2, D3 Escondido Times-Advocate 30 September 1987 and the Bills in 1985, acting mainly as a kickoff returner.Anthony Steels stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/SteeAn20.htm pro-football-reference.com 18 April 2022 Cut by Bills on 11 August 1986.Transactions https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99967473/steels-bills-12-aug-1986/ AP 7 Clarksdale Press Register 12 August 1987 Signed to Chargers' strike team on 23 September. Registered 1 rush for 3 yards and 1 catch for 4 yards. Cut on 20 October. Johnny Taylor 55 LB Hawaii Played in 2 late-season games for the 1984 Atlanta Falcons as an undrafted rookie and 15 the following season.Extra points https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100260950/taylor-to-falcons-7-dec-1984/ 6D Detroit Free Press 7 December 1984Johnny Taylor stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/T/TaylJo21.htm pro-football-reference.com 22 April 2022 Cut midseason in 1986 and signed by Miami;Dolphins sign former Falcon https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100265293/taylor-to-dolphins-15-oct-1986/ 4C South Florida Sun Sentinel 15 October 1986 placed on injured reserve after one game and released soon afterwards.Phillips Mike Dolphin for a day retires https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100265696/taylor-ir-25-oct-1986/ 6B Miami Herald 25 October 1987Shula already sharpening ax for '87 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100266049/taylor-dolphins-7-dec-1986/ Scripps Howard News Service 6D San Angelo Standard-Times 7 December 1986 Signed to Chargers' strike team on 23 September. Retained for four games after strike; injured in the last of these.Seahawks can make up ground on Chargers today https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100269093/taylor-injured-22-nov-1987/ AP 5B Wausau Daily Herald 22 November 1987 Released on 22 August 1988.Transactions https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100268793/taylor-out-23-aug-1988/ 2D Grand Junction Daily Sentinel 23 August 1988 Dwight Wheeler 71 G Tennessee State 4th-round pick for New England in 1978 draft; spent six years with the Patriots, then featured in four games for the 1984 Raiders.Dwight Wheeler stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/W/WheeDw20.htm pro-football-reference.com 18 April 2022 Cut in preseason by Los Angeles for three straight years (1985–87).Posner Jay Chargers notes https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99968536/wheeler-in-19-sep-1987/ B2 Escondido Times-Advocate 19 September 1987 Signed by Chargers on 18 September 1987, before their week 2 game, but featured only in the strike games. Cut on 27 October. Played for the Raiders in 1987–88. Al Williams 84 WR Nevada Undrafted;Al Williams stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/W/WillAl20.htm pro-football-reference.com 18 April 2022 played for the USFL's Outlaws franchise for two seasons (1984–85).Al Williams stats https://www.profootballarchives.com/playerw/will00900.html profootballarchives.com 18 April 2022 Made 1986 Lions squad, but cut midseason without playing.Lions release Williams https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99971578/williams-lions-4-oct-1986/ B1 Reno Gazette-Journal 4 October 1987 Waived by both Chargers and Saints in 1987.Inside the NFL camps https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99972057/williams-waived-29-aug-1987/ AP 4C Fort Myers News-Press 29 August 1987NFL roll call https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99972270/williams-saints-8-sep-1987/ B-4 Orlando Sentinel 8 September 1987 Signed to Chargers' strike team on 23 September. Caught 12 passes for 247 yards and a touchdown. Remained on the roster until August 1988,Brockman Jim Don Smith is back in Buccaneers' penthouse https://www.newspapers.com/clip/99973125/williams-out-11-aug-1988/ D-1 Bradenton Herald 11 August 1988 but did not play for the Chargers again. Played for the CFL's Hamilton Tiger Cats in 1989. Blaise Winter 96 NT Syracuse 2nd-round draft pick for the 1984 Colts; voted to All-Rookie team.Greg Bell named to all-rookie team https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100329413/all-rookie-19-jan-1985/ AP 26 South Bend Tribune 19 Jan 1985 Missed all of 1985 and the start of 1986 through injury;Cohen Andy Positive thought on Colts: They'll probably show up https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100276910/winter-injured-13-sep-1985/ 8C South Florida Sun Sentinel 13 September 1987 cut midseason and signed by Chargers, playing four games.NFL notebook https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100277517/winter-to-chargers-i-25-nov-1986/ 18 Indianapolis News 25 November 1986 Waived on 29 August 1987. Signed to strike team on 23 September. Posted 4 sacks in three games, then placed on injured reserve and traded to the Packers,Chargers deal strike team nose guard to Green Bay https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100278144/winter-to-packers-29-april-1988/ D5 Escondido Times-Advocate 29 April 1988 with whom he spent 1988–90. Returned to San Diego for 1992–94. Finished 11-year NFL career with 300 tackles and 21 sacks.Blaise Winter stats https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/W/WintBl20.htm pro-football-reference.com 23 April 2022 Ken Zachary 33 RB Oklahoma State Undrafted in the NFL; spent 1986 and 1987 with the CFL's Hamilton Tiger Cats.Kenny Zachary stats https://www.profootballarchives.com/playerz/zach00200.html profootballarchives.com 23 April 2022 Dropped to the practice squad during his second season.Ticat back heading to Chargers https://www.newspapers.com/clip/100303875/zachary-canada-25-sep-1987/ Journal News Services H4 Edmonton Journal 25 September 1987 Signed to Chargers' strike team on 23 September. Rushed once for 3 yards (losing a fumble), and returned a kickoff for 2 yards. Cut on 20 October. Returned to Hamilton for one further season (1988). Schedule Week Date Opponent Result Record Venue Attendance Recap 1 September 13 at Kansas City Chiefs L 13–20 0–1 Arrowhead Stadium 56,940 Recap 2 September 20 St. Louis Cardinals W 28–24 1–1 Jack Murphy Stadium 47,988 Recap 3 September 27 Seattle Seahawks cancelled 1–1 Jack Murphy StadiumNFL Players Strike 4 October 4 at Cincinnati Bengals W 10–9 2–1 Riverfront Stadium 26,209 Recap 5 October 11 at Tampa Bay Buccaneers W 17–13 3–1 Tampa Stadium 23,873 Recap 6 October 18 at Los Angeles Raiders W 23–17 4–1 Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum 23,541 Recap 7 October 25 Kansas City Chiefs W 42–21 5–1 Jack Murphy Stadium 47,972 Recap 8 November 1 Cleveland Browns W 27–24 (OT) 6–1 Jack Murphy Stadium 55,381 Recap 9 November 8 at Indianapolis Colts W 16–13 7–1 Hoosier Dome 60,459 Recap 10 November 15, 1987 Los Angeles Raiders W 16–14 8–1 Jack Murphy Stadium 60,639 Recap 11 November 22 at Seattle Seahawks L 3–34 8–2 Kingdome 62,444 Recap 12 November 29 Denver Broncos L 17–31 8–3 Jack Murphy Stadium 61,880 Recap 13 December 6 at Houston Oilers L 18–33 8–4 Houston Astrodome 31,714 Recap 14 December 13 Pittsburgh Steelers L 16–20 8–5 Jack Murphy Stadium 51,605 Recap 15 December 20 Indianapolis Colts L 7–20 8–6 Jack Murphy Stadium 46,211 Recap 16 December 27 at Denver Broncos L 0–24 8–7 Mile High Stadium 21,189 Recap Note: Intra-division opponents are in bold text. Game summaries All game reports use the Pro Football Researchers' gamebook archive as a source.Members area profootballresearchers.com https://www.profootballresearchers.org/members-only.html subscription June 11, 2022 June 18, 2022 https://web.archive.org/web/20220618090702/http://www.profootballresearchers.org/members-only.html dead Week 1: at Kansas City Chiefs San Diego Chargers 1987 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week 1: San Diego Chargers at Kansas City Chiefs – Game summary September 13 12:00 p.m. CDT Chargers 0 0 3 10 Chiefs 3 7 0 10 Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City, Missouri 56,940 65 °F 1, relative humidity 70%, wind 9 mph Pat Haggerty NBC Gary Gerould and Sam Rutigliano Box score First quarter KAN – Nick Lowery 25-yard field goal, 1:23. Chiefs 3–0. Drive: 12 plays, 46 yards, 6:10. Second quarter KAN – Christian Okoye 45-yard run (Nick Lowery kick), 2:56. Chiefs 10–0. Drive: 6 plays, 80 yards, 3:14. Third quarter SDG – Vince Abbott 32-yard field goal, 7:47. Chiefs 10–3. Drive: 14 plays, 72 yards, 7:13. Fourth quarter KAN – Nick Lowery 29-yard field goal, 12:45. Chiefs 13–3. Drive: 12 plays, 63 yards, 5:48. SDG – Gary Anderson 34-yard pass from Dan Fouts (Vince Abbott kick), 7:37. Chiefs 13–10. Drive: 6 plays, 77 yards, 1:35. SDG – Vince Abbott 33-yard field goal, 3:37. Tie 13–13. Drive: 7 plays, 15 yards, 2:57. KAN – Paul Palmer 85-yard kickoff return (Nick Lowery kick), 3:19. Chiefs 20–13. Top passers SDG – Dan Fouts – 21/39, 270 yards, TD, 2 INT KAN – Todd Blackledge – 6/15, 79 yards, INT Top rushers SDG – Gary Anderson – 12 rushes, 43 yards KAN – Christian Okoye – 21 rushes, 105 yards, TD Top receivers SDG – Lionel James – 6 receptions, 100 yards KAN – Stephone Paige – 2 receptions, 29 yards San Diego gave up a late kickoff return touchdown after rallying from a 10-point 4th-quarter deficit.Friend Tom Kansas City rookies run Chargers ragged, 20–13 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/102849337/chargers-13-20-chiefs-14-sep-1987/ III-1, III-10 Los Angeles Times 14 September 1987 The Chargers turned the ball over twice in the opening eight minutes; James fumbled a punt and Fouts threw an interception to Deron Cherry, with the Chiefs converting the second turnover into a field goal. In the 2nd quarter, the Chargers reached a 2nd and 6 at the Kansas City 14, but Cherry produced another interception, this time in the end zone. Kansas City then drove 80 yards and extended their lead, with rookie Christian Okoye breaking away on a 43-yard touchdown run. The Chiefs led 10–0 at halftime.1987 week 1 gamebook, Chargers at Chiefs September 13, 1987 https://www.profootballresearchers.org/members-only.html subscription June 18, 2022 June 11, 2022 https://web.archive.org/web/20220618090702/http://www.profootballresearchers.org/members-only.html dead The Chargers opened the 3rd quarter with a 14-play, 72-yard drive, featuring a 27-yard catch by Winslow. They reached a 1st and goal at the 2, but were pushed back by a Dennis McKnight false start, and had to settle for an Abbott field goal. Abbott missed from 44 yards out on the next Charger drive, and Kansas City responded with a successful kick by Nick Lowery. Midway through the final quarter, San Diego got their lone touchdown of the game when Anderson caught a Fouts pass near the right sideline and barely stayed in bounds before completing a 34-yard touchdown catch. Two plays later, Plummer intercepted Todd Blackledge, setting his team up at the opposition 30. The Chargers drove to the 5, but Anderson was ruled out of bounds in the end zone on an attempted 3rd-down catch, and they settled for a game-tying field goal. Paul Palmer, another Chiefs rookie, returned the ensuing kickoff untouched for a 95-yard touchdown with 3:19 to play. The Chargers then went three-and-out. They nearly had one more opportunity, but Danny Walters was unable to come up with a tipped Blackledge pass, which was instead caught by Stephone Paige for the first down that allowed Kansas City to run out the clock. Smith had 2 of the Chargers' 4 sacks. They allowed only 58 net passing yards, compared to their own total of 258, but lost the turnover count 4–1. James finished with 6 catches for 100 yards.San Diego Chargers at Kansas City Chiefs – September 13th, 1987 https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/198709130kan.htm pro-football-reference.com 30 May 2022 Week 2: vs. St. Louis Cardinals San Diego Chargers 1987 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week Two: St. Louis Cardinals at San Diego Chargers – Game summary September 20 1:00 p.m. PDT Cardinals 0 0 10 14 Chargers 14 14 0 0 Jack Murphy Stadium, San Diego, California 47,988 69 °F 1, relative humidity 82%, wind 10 mph Jim Tunney CBS Jack Buck and Will McDonough Box score First quarter SDG – Lionel James 81-yard punt return (Vince Abbott kick), 12:25. Chargers 7–0. SDG – Gary Anderson 5-yard run (Vince Abbott kick), 9:36. Chargers 14–0. Drive: 4 plays, 15 yards, 1:51. Second quarter SDG – Wes Chandler 26-yard pass from Dan Fouts (Vince Abbott kick), 10:44. Chargers 21–0. Drive: 11 plays, 80 yards, 5:25. SDG – Lionel James 7-yard run (Vince Abbott kick), 1:28. Chargers 28–0. Drive: 1 play, 7 yards, 0:06. Third quarter STL – Roy Green 8-yard pass from Neil Lomax (Jim Gallery kick), 6:43. Chargers 28–7. Drive: 3 plays, 26 yards, 1:59. STL – Jim Gallery 38 yard field goal, 1:02. Chargers 28–10. Drive: 10 plays, 30 yards, 5:00. Fourth quarter STL – Jay Novacek 21-yard pass from Neil Lomax (Jim Gallery kick), 7:25. Chargers 28–17. Drive: 6 plays, 80 yards, 3:54. STL – Stump Mitchell 17-yard pass from Neil Lomax (Jim Gallery kick), 1:48. Chargers 28–24. Drive: 10 plays, 80 yards, 1:53. Top passers STL – Neil Lomax – 32/61, 457 yards, 3 TD, INT SDG – Dan Fouts – 13/19, 152 yards, TD, INT Top rushers STL – Stump Mitchell – 13 rushes, 42 yards SDG – Gary Anderson – 19 rushes, 79 yards, TD Top receivers STL – Roy Green – 7 receptions, 139 yards, TD SDG – Wes Chandler – 5 receptions, 77 yards, TD After taking a 28-point halftime lead, the Chargers barely hung on to win thanks to a late drop at the goal line.Friend Tom Win over St. Louis almost gets away from Chargers https://www.newspapers.com/clip/102860502/chargers-28-24-cardinals-21-sep-1987/ III-1, III-10 Los Angeles Times 21 September 1987 The Cardinals went three-and-out on the game's opening possession, and James profited from a block by Glenn en route to an 81-yard punt return touchdown. Three plays later, Neil Lomax fumbled the snap, and Smith recovered at the Cardinal 15. Anderson scored four plays later, and it was 14–0 only 5:24 into the game. Later, Fouts led an 11-play, 80-yard touchdown drive, capped by a 26-yard touchdown pass to Chandler. Late in the half, Smith intercepted Lomax, and James scored from the 7 on the next play. St. Louis reached the Charger 5 before running out of time, leaving the Chargers up 28–0 at the break.1987 week 2 gamebook, Cardinals at Chargers September 20, 1987 https://www.profootballresearchers.org/members-only.html subscription June 18, 2022 June 11, 2022 https://web.archive.org/web/20220618090702/http://www.profootballresearchers.org/members-only.html dead Anderson had a 25-yard run and a 17-yard catch on the opening possession of the second half, but he then fumbled a pitch on 1st and goal from the 10, and St. Louis recovered. The Cardinals were forced to punt, but Fouts was soon intercepted in his own territory to begin the comeback. St. Louis scored 24 points on four consecutive possession, with Lomax throwing three touchdowns. San Diego answered with a punt each time, the final one of which was run back to the Charger 32 with 1:15 to play. Catches by Jay Novacek and Earl Ferrell moved the ball to the 5 yard line, from where Lomax threw three incompletions, bring up 4th and goal with 20 seconds to play. Due to an error by Smith, Ferrell was open to the right, but he dropped Lomax's pass at the goal line and the Chargers held on to win. Despite the victory, the home crowd booed the team off the field. Lomax was sacked by five different players, but passed for 457 yards, then a record against the Chargers.Most passing yards versus Chargers, game https://stathead.com/tiny/mLAXf stathead.com 31 May 2022 San Diego only ran 56 plays, against 86 by the Cardinals.St. Louis Cardinals at San Diego Chargers – September 20th, 1987 https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/198709200sdg.htm pro-football-reference.com 31 May 2022 Week 3: vs. Seattle Seahawks (cancelled) All week 3 games were cancelled due to the NFLPA strike.Goldberg Dave Week 3 games are off https://www.newspapers.com/clip/102784160/week-3-cancelled-25-sep-1987/ AP 1-C, 8-C Tampa Tribune 25 September 1987 Week 4: at Cincinnati Bengals San Diego Chargers 1987 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week Four: San Diego Chargers at Cincinnati Bengals – Game summary October 4 1:00 p.m. EDT Chargers 0 0 0 10 Bengals 7 2 0 0 Riverfront Stadium, Cincinnati, Ohio 26,209 45 °F 1, relative humidity 55%, wind 8 mph Gordon McCarter NBC Gary Gerould and Joe Namath Box score First quarter CIN – Wade Russell 4-yard pass from Adrian Breen (Massimo Manca kick), 0:54. Bengals 7–0. Drive: 4 plays, 63 yards, 1:45. Second quarter CIN – Safety, Scott Schutt tackled Rick Neuheisel in end zone, 7:09. Bengals 9–0. Third quarter No scoring plays. Fourth quarter SDG – Frank Middleton 1-yard run (Rick Neuheisel run), 11:18. Bengals 9–7. Drive: 8 plays, 86 yards, 2:16. SDG – Jeff Gaffney 24-yard field goal, 2:44. Chargers 10–9. Drive: 7 plays, 35 yards, 3:06. Top passers SDG – Mike Kelley – 7/9, 110 yards CIN – Adrian Breen – 3/5, 9 yards, TD Top rushers SDG – Frank Middleton – 16 rushes, 61 yards, TD CIN – Marc Logan – 14 rushes, 95 yards Top receivers SDG – Al Williams – 5 receptions, 73 yards CIN – Greg Meehan – 1 reception, 6 yards The replacement Chargers won their first game after being held scoreless for over three quarters. Todd Spencer fumbled on their first offensive play, though he recovered the ball himself. On the next possession, a 23-yard catch by Al Williams positioned them for a 30-yard field goal attempt that Jeff Gaffney missed wide left. San Diego soon moved back into Bengals territory, but Ken Zachary lost a fumble. Marc Logan then had a 51-yard run, leading to a Cincinnati touchdown two plays later. In the 2nd quarter, the Chargers had a 3rd and 12 from their own 18 and Neuheisel was sacked back in the end zone for a safety. Darrel Hopper blocked a Bengals' field goal try on the ensuing drive, and San Diego took over at the Cincinnati 45. Neuheisel then connected with Williams for 18 yards, but was intercepted two plays later, and the Bengals led 9–0 at halftime.1987 week 4 gamebook, Chargers at Bengals October 4, 1987 https://www.profootballresearchers.org/members-only.html subscription June 18, 2022 June 11, 2022 https://web.archive.org/web/20220618090702/http://www.profootballresearchers.org/members-only.html dead Cincinnati drove to a 4th and 1 at the San Diego 23 late in the 3rd quarter; the Bengals tried to run for the first down, but were stopped for no gain. Kelley was then inserted at quarterback. His first possession was a three-and-out, but his second was an 8-play, 86-yard touchdown drive: Spencer took a pass 45 yards for the biggest play, and Frank Middleton leapt over the line to score from the 1 two plays later. On the extra point attempt, a bad snap by Dwight Wheeler eluded the holder (Neuheisel). Gaffney picked up the loose ball and ran to the left; confronted by several Bengals, he pitched the ball back to Neuheisel, who headed to the right and dove in from a yard out, pulling the deficit back to 9–7 with eleven minutes to play. After the next three drives ended in punts, Williams had a 15-yard catch to help position Gaffney for a 24-yard field goal, with David Diaz-Infante replacing Wheeler as the long snapper. Gaffney converted the kick with under three minutes left. The Bengals opted to punt after gaining 6 yards on three plays, and Middleton ran for two first downs to help San Diego run out the clock. Neuheisel completed 10 of 19 passes for 84 yards and an interception; Kelley completed 7 of 9 for 110 yards.San Diego Chargers at Cincinnati Bengals – October 4th, 1987 https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/198710040cin.htm pro-football-reference.com 1 June 2022 The Chargers defense allowed −13 passing yards (the Bengals' quarterbacks had 10 passing yards, and lost 23 yards from 3 sacks); this remains a franchise record 2022 y.Fewest passing yards versus Chargers, game https://stathead.com/tiny/9QyeM stathead.com 1 June 2022 Week 5: at Tampa Bay Buccaneers San Diego Chargers 1987 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week Five: San Diego Chargers at Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Game summary October 11 1:00 p.m. EDT Chargers 0 0 10 7 Buccaneers 7 3 0 3 Tampa Stadium, Tampa Bay, Florida 23,873 75 °F 1, relative humidity 83%, wind 13 mph Gene Barth NBC Sam Nover and Dave Casper Box score First quarter TB – Eric Streater 26-yard pass from John Reaves (Van Tiffin kick), 10:57. Buccaneers 7–0. Drive: 2 plays, 28 yards, 0:43. Second quarter TB – Van Tiffin 41-yard field goal, 0:37. Buccaneers 10–0. Drive: 7 plays, 28 yards, 3:41. Third quarter SDG – Jeff Gaffney 27-yard field goal, 10:02. Buccaneers 10–3. Drive: 11 plays, 66 yards, 4:58. SDG – Martin Sartin 2-yard run (Jeff Gaffney kick), 3:13. Tied 10–10. Drive: 9 plays, 80 yards, 4:11. Fourth quarter SDG – Tim Moffett 19-yard pass from Rick Neuheisel (Jeff Gaffney kick), 13:00. Chargers 17–10. Drive: 6 plays, 57 yards, 3:11. TB – Van Tiffin 45-yard field goal, 7:53. Chargers 17–13. Drive: 10 plays, 51 yards, 5:07. Top passers SDG – Rick Neuheisel – 18/22, 217 yards, TD TB – John Reaves – 4/8, 67 yards, TD Top rushers SDG – Martin Sartin – 12 rushes, 50 yards, TD TB – Mike Hold – 4 rushes, 51 yards Top receivers SDG – Al Williams – 5 receptions, 110 yards TB – Eric Streater – 2 receptions, 41 yards, TD Strong performances by Neuheisel and the defense helped the replacement Chargers to another comeback win.Posner Jay Chargers strike out for division lead https://www.newspapers.com/clip/102974536/chargers-17-13-buccaneers-12-oct-1987/ C1, C3 Escondido Times-Advocate 12 October 1987 Tampa Bay were forced to punt on the game's opening possession, but Al Williams fumbled the punt and the Buccaneers recovered, leading to a touchdown two plays later. Gaffney missed a 38-yard field goal on the next drive, and the following seven possessions ended in punts. Kelley had started the game at quarterback, but Neuheisel replaced him with 6:22 to play in the 2nd quarter. Four plays later, he completed a pass to Harry Holt, who lost a fumble. Tampa Bay recovered, added a field goal and led 10–0 at the break.1987 week 5 gamebook, Chargers at Buccaneers October 11, 1987 https://www.profootballresearchers.org/members-only.html subscription June 18, 2022 June 11, 2022 https://web.archive.org/web/20220618090702/http://www.profootballresearchers.org/members-only.html dead San Diego scored on their first three possessions of the second half. First, Neuheisel converted a 3rd and 10 with an 18-yard scramble, setting up a 27-yard field goal that Gaffney successfully converted. After a Buccaneers three-and-out, San Diego drove 80 yards in 9 plays to tie the score. Williams had catches of 20 and 32 yards, and Martin Sartin scored from the 2. A sack by Phillips forced another Buccaneers three-and-out, and the Chargers drove for the go-ahead touchdown, a 19-yard pass from Neuheisel to Tim Moffett two minutes into the final quarter. After Tampa Bay pulled three points closer with a field goal, San Diego drove to the Buccaneers' 16 before Sartin lost a fumble. Tampa Bay soon reached a 4th and 1 at their own 35, and elected to punt with three minutes to play. Sartin converted a 3rd and 1 on the next drive, and the Chargers ran all but seven seconds off the clock before the Buccaneers got the ball back. Carl Brazley ended the game with an interception. Kelley completed 5 of 11 passes for 53 yards; Neuheisel was 18 of 22 for 217 yards and a touchdown. His completion percentage of 81.8% was a Charger record at the time (minimum 20 attempts).Highest completion percentage, min. 20 passes, Chargers, through 2021 https://stathead.com/tiny/N8aPv stathead.com 1 June 2022 Williams caught 5 passes for 110 yards. The Buccaneers gained only 7 first downs, and 70 passing yards.San Diego Chargers at Tampa Bay Buccaneers – October 11th, 1987 https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/198710110tam.htm pro-football-reference.com 1 June 2022 Week 6: at Los Angeles Raiders San Diego Chargers 1987 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week Six: San Diego Chargers at Los Angeles Raiders – Game summary October 18 1:00 p.m. PDT Chargers 7 0 0 16 Raiders 0 14 0 3 Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, Los Angeles, California 23,541 65 °F 1, relative humidity 80%, wind 9 mph Red Cashion NBC Dick Enberg and Merlin Olsen Box score First quarter SDG – Rick Neuheisel 8-yard run (Jeff Gaffney kick), 11:30. Chargers 7–0. Drive: 3 plays, 8 yards, 0:17. Second quarter RAI – Carl Aikens 7-yard pass from Vince Evans (Chris Bahr kick), 6:47. Tied 7–7. Drive: 8 plays, 73 yards, 3:50. RAI – Carl Aikens 32-yard pass from Vince Evans (Chris Bahr kick), 0:01. Raiders 14–7. Drive: 4 plays, 75 yards, 0:32. Third quarter No scoring plays. Fourth quarter SDG – Jeff Gaffney 21-yard field goal, 14:10. Raiders 14–10. Drive: 5 plays, 66 yards, 2:59. RAI – Chris Bahr 33-yard field goal, 10:41. Raiders 17–10. Drive: 7 plays, 35 yards, 3:29. SDG – Al Williams 7-yard pass from Mike Kelley (Jeff Gaffney kick), 8:07. Tied 17–17. Drive: 5 plays, 71 yards, 2:34. SDG – Elvis Patterson 75-yard interception return (kick failed), 0:18. Chargers 23–17. Top passers SDG – Mike Kelley – 5/9, 142 yards, TD RAI – Vince Evans – 11/31, 207 yards, 2 TD, INT Top rushers SDG – Keyvan Jenkins – 11 rushes, 50 yards RAI – Vince Evans – 4 rushes, 47 yards Top receivers SDG – Calvin Muhammad – 1 reception, 67 yards RAI – Mervyn Fernandez – 4 reception, 94 yards Patterson's late interception return gave the replacement Chargers their third win, ensuring that the regular players would return as division leaders. Patterson gave his team the first scoring chance of the game when he recovered a fumble at the Raider 8; San Diego eventually went for the touchdown on 4th and goal from the 1, but a Sartin sweep lost 8 yards. Miller forced another fumble on the next play, with Walt Harris recovering, again on the Raider 8. This time, Neuheisel followed two incompletions by scrambling for a touchdown. On their next possession, San Diego produced an 11-minute, 22-play drive that took them from their own 6 yard line to a 3rd and goal from the 4, before Neuheisel was sacked and Gaffney saw his 36-yard field goal attempt blocked. The Raiders then drove 73 yards the other way, and tied the score on a touchdown pass from Vince Evans. After a series of punts, the Raiders took over on their own 25 yard line with 33 seconds left. Evans moved the ball to the San Diego 32, from where he threw another touchdown pass a single second before halftime.1987 week 6 gamebook, Chargers at Raiders October 18, 1987 https://www.profootballresearchers.org/members-only.html subscription June 18, 2022 June 11, 2022 https://web.archive.org/web/20220618090702/http://www.profootballresearchers.org/members-only.html dead Trailing 14–7, the Chargers punted on their first two possessions of the second half, then switched to Kelley at quarterback. His first possession was a three-and-out, but he opened his second with a 67-yard completion to Calvin Muhammad, setting up a short field goal. After Los Angeles responded with a field goal of their own, Kelley connected with Al Williams for 57 yards, with the same pair ending the drive with a touchdown pass on 3rd and goal from the 7. With the score tied at 17–17, the Raiders drove into position for a 37-yard field goal, which Chris Bahr missed wide right with two minutes left. San Diego went three-and-out, and Los Angeles drove to the Charger 33 in the final minute. Patterson then cut in front of an out pattern, intercepted Evans and ran untouched for a 75-yard touchdown return with 18 seconds to play. Los Angeles reached the Charger 45, from where Evans' final pass was incomplete in the end zone as time expired. Neuheisel completed 12 of 18 passes for 66 yards; Kelley completed 5 of 9 for 142 yards and a touchdown. The replacement Chargers scored 33 of their 50 points in the 4th quarter.San Diego Chargers at Los Angeles Raiders – October 18th, 1987 https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/198710180rai.htm pro-football-reference.com 1 June 2022 The Raiders had 17 of their regular players available, compared to just one (Unrein) for the Chargers. Week 7: vs. Kansas City Chiefs San Diego Chargers 1987 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week Seven: Kansas City Chiefs at San Diego Chargers – Game summary October 25 1:00 p.m. PST Chiefs 0 14 7 0 Chargers 14 21 0 7 Jack Murphy Stadium, San Diego, California 47,972 68 °F 1, relative humidity 76%, wind 7 mph Bob Frederic NBC Tom Hammond and Dave Casper Box score First quarter SDG – Wes Chandler 10-yard pass from Dan Fouts (Vince Abbott kick), 9:46. Chargers 7–0. Drive: 10 plays, 75 yards, 5:14. SDG – Gary Anderson 1-yard run (Vince Abbott kick), 0:10. Chargers 14–0. Drive: 11 plays, 91 yards, 5:41. Second quarter SDG – Les Miller fumble recovery in end zone (Vince Abbott kick), 11:26. Chargers 21–0. SDG – Dan Fouts 1-yard run (Vince Abbott kick), 6:23. Chargers 28–0. Drive: 6 plays, 38 yards, 2:51. KAN – Carlos Carson 14-yard pass from Bill Kenney (Nick Lowery kick), 4:34. Chargers 28–7. Drive: 7 plays, 78 yards, 1:49. SDG – Kellen Winslow 19-yard pass from Dan Fouts (Vince Abbott kick), 1:17. Chargers 35–7. Drive: 7 plays, 71 yards, 3:17. KAN – Carlos Carson 63-yard pass from Bill Kenney (Nick Lowery kick), 1:03. Chargers 35–14. Drive: 1 play, 63 yards, 0:14. Third quarter KAN – Christian Okoye 1-yard run (Nick Lowery kick), 7:37. Chargers 35–21. Drive: 6 plays, 93 yards, 2:01. Fourth quarter SDG – Gary Anderson 1-yard run (Vince Abbott kick), 11:44. Chargers 42–21. Drive: 10 plays, 55 yards, 5:51. Top passers KAN – Bill Kenney – 22/37, 328 yards, 2 TD, INT SDG – Dan Fouts – 24/34, 293 yards, 2 TD, INT Top rushers KAN – Christian Okoye – 8 rushes, 44 yards, TD SDG – Lionel James – 6 rushes, 40 yards Top receivers KAN – Carlos Carson – 9 receptions, 197 yards, 2 TD SDG – Lionel James – 5 receptions, 72 yards The regular Chargers returned with a relatively comfortable win. They went 75 yards on their first drive, with Fouts completing 4 of 5 passes for 58 yards, including a 10-yard touchdown to Chandler. Later in the opening quarter, they had a 91-yard touchdown drive; this time Fouts completed 5 of 6 for 71 yards, and Anderson scored with a 1-yard run. In the 2nd quarter, Thomas Benson stopped a threatening Chiefs drive with a fumble recovery, and Mojsiejenko pinned Kansas City at their own 8 with a punt. Two plays later, Bayless sacked Bill Kenney, forcing a fumble that Miller, a replacement player who'd retained his place in the team, recovered in the end zone. The next Charger touchdown was set up by James' 18-yard punt return to the Kansas City 38, setting up a short drive that ended with Fouts sneaking in from the 1; the score was 28–0, with the Chiefs only having gained two first downs. Kenney threw a touchdown on the following drive; in response, San Diego reached a 3rd and 13 at midfield, which they converted when Chandler drew a 31-yard defensive pass interference penalty. Fouts found Winslow in the front corner of the end zone on the following play. Kenney responded with another touchdown pass on the next play from scrimmage, and it was 35–14 at halftime.1987 week 7 gamebook, Chiefs at Chargers October 25, 1987 https://www.profootballresearchers.org/members-only.html subscription June 18, 2022 June 11, 2022 https://web.archive.org/web/20220618090702/http://www.profootballresearchers.org/members-only.html dead Another 18-yard punt return by James set the Chargers up in Chiefs territory early in the second half; they reached a 2nd and goal from the 4, but Fouts fumbled while being sacked, and Kansas City recovered at their own 7. The Chiefs then drove 93 yards in only six plays, aided by three Charger penalties, and scored on Okoye's 1-yard run. Kansas City were threatening to draw closer shortly afterwards when Anderson lost a fumble inside his own 40, but Glenn recovered another fumble two plays later at the Charger 20. Late in the 3rd quarter, Mojsiejenko punted but Kansas City were flagged for roughing the kicker, allowing San Diego to retain possession. Anderson ended that drive with another 1-yard touchdown run. That was the final score of the game; the next two Chiefs possessions ended with a fumble (forced by Lee Williams and recovered by Banks) and an interception by Smith. Fouts completed 24 of 34 passes for 293 yards, with 2 touchdowns and no interceptions. The Chargers gained 30 first downs and possessed the ball for 37 minutes. Both teams gave up over 100 yards in penalties (141 by the Chiefs, 118 by the Chargers).Kansas City Chiefs at San Diego Chargers – October 25th, 1987 https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/198710250sdg.htm pro-football-reference.com 2 June 2022 Chandler's touchdown was the 56th and final one of his career (15 with the New Orleans Saints, 41 for the Chargers).Wes Chandler career touchdowns https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/C/ChanWe00/touchdowns/ pro-football-reference.com 5 June 2022 Week 8: vs. Cleveland Browns San Diego Chargers 1987 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week Eight: Cleveland Browns at San Diego Chargers – Game summary November 1 1:00 p.m. PST Browns 7 7 10 0 0 Chargers 14 0 0 10 3 Jack Murphy Stadium, San Diego, California 55,381 66 °F 1, relative humidity 84%, wind 13 mph Fred Silva NBC Gary Gerould and Sam Rutigliano Box score First quarter SDG – Lionel James 15-yard run (Vince Abbott kick), 13:55. Chargers 7–0. Drive: 1 play, 15 yards, 0:09. CLE – Webster Slaughter 20-yard pass from Bernie Kosar (Jeff Jaeger kick), 8:48. Tied 7–7. Drive: 10 plays, 71 yards, 5:07. SDG – Rod Bernstine 10-yard pass from Dan Fouts (Vince Abbott kick), 4:30. Chargers 14–7. Drive: 9 plays, 82 yards, 4:18. Second quarter CLE – Brian Brennan 41-yard pass from Bernie Kosar (Jeff Jaeger kick), 5:40. Tied 14–14. Drive: 4 plays, 83 yards, 2:09. Third quarter CLE – Jeff Jaeger 41-yard field goal, 5:12. Browns 17–14. Drive: 10 plays, 54 yards, 3:58. CLE – Earnest Byner 1-yard run (Jeff Jaeger kick), 3:12. Browns 24–14. Drive: 4 plays, 20 yards, 1:44. Fourth quarter SDG – Lionel James 22-yard pass from Dan Fouts (Vince Abbott kick), 5:08. Browns 24–21. Drive: 7 plays, 75 yards, 4:06. SDG – Vince Abbott 20-yard field goal, 1:46. Tied 24–24. Drive: 8 plays, 44 yards, 1:37. Overtime SDG – Vince Abbott 33-yard field goal, 12:44. Chargers 27–24. Drive: 3 plays, 4 yards, 0:56. Top passers CLE – Bernie Kosar – 24/42, 298 yards, 2 TD, 2 INT SDG – Dan Fouts – 25/42, 315 yards, 2 TD, INT Top rushers CLE – Curtis Adams – 15 rushes, 66 yards SDG – Kevin Mack – 14 rushes, 61 yards Top receivers CLE – Brian Brennan – 4 receptions, 94 yards, TD SDG – Lionel James – 4 receptions, 90 yards, TD San Diego overturned a 10-point 4th quarter deficit to win in overtime.Plaschke Bill Chargers come back to win in a big way, 27–24 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/103046084/chargers-27-24-browns-2-nov-1987/ III-7 Los Angeles Times 2 November 1987 Their defense got an early turnover when ex-Brown Banks intercepted Bernie Kosar and returned the ball 20 yards to the Cleveland 15 – James went around right end for a touchdown on the next play. Kosar led a touchdown drive in response, but the Chargers came back with a 9-play, 81-yard drive, facing no 3rd downs and scoring via Bernstine's 10-yard catch (his first career touchdown). In the 2nd quarter, Kosar tied the score with his second touchdown pass. James set up a field goal attempt late in the half with a 21-yard punt return, but Abbott was well short from 52 yards out, keeping the score at 14–14.1987 week 8 gamebook, Browns at Chargers November 1, 1987 https://www.profootballresearchers.org/members-only.html subscription June 18, 2022 June 11, 2022 https://web.archive.org/web/20220618090702/http://www.profootballresearchers.org/members-only.html dead Banks forced and recovered a fumble early in the second half, setting his offense up at the Cleveland 29, but Fouts gave the ball back with an interception two plays later. The Browns then drove for a field goal, and James lost a fumble on the next play from scrimmage, setting up a short touchdown drive and a 24–14 Cleveland lead. A 66-yard Charger drive then produced no points, as Abbott missed a 32-yard field goal. Phillips sacked Kosar to force a punt, and Fouts passed on every play of the ensuing drive, completing 6 of 7 for 85 yards, including a 22-yard touchdown pass to James with 5:08 to play. Phillips and Unrein split a 3rd-down sack on the following drive, and a short punt started the Chargers off at the Cleveland 46. San Diego drove as far as the Cleveland 2, but Pete Holohan couldn't come down with Fouts' 3rd down pass in the end zone, and Abbott tied the score with a 22-yard field goal, 1:46 from the end of regulation time. Kosar led his team as far as the San Diego 41, but another sack pushed them back, this time split by Glenn and Bayless. Following an incompletion, they were forced to punt, and the game went into an extra period. Cleveland won the overtime coin toss and elected to receive. After two runs, they faced a 3rd and 2 at their own 36; Kosar's overthrown pass was intercepted by Glenn and returned 20 yards to the Cleveland 25, with a face mask penalty moving the ball five yards further. After two running plays, Abbott drove the winning 33-yard field goal just inside the left upright. Fouts completed 25 of 42 passes for 315 yards, 2 touchdowns and 1 interception. James rushed 3 times for 21 yards and a touchdown, and caught 4 passes for 90 yards and a further touchdown. This was the last overtime game the Chargers won until 2002.Overtime games, Chargers https://stathead.com/tiny/6oUl9 stathead.com 2 June 2022 Week 9: at Indianapolis Colts San Diego Chargers 1987 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week Nine: San Diego Chargers at Indianapolis Colts – Game summary November 8 1:00 p.m. EST Chargers 0 0 6 10 Colts 3 10 0 0 Hoosier Dome, Indianapolis, Indiana 60,459 N/A (game played indoors) Jerry Markbreit NBC Marv Albert and Joe Namath Box score First quarter IND – Dean Biasucci 37-yard field goal, 6:26. Colts 3–0. Drive: 16 plays, 59 yards, 8:34. Second quarter IND – Dean Biasucci 27-yard field goal, 10:39. Colts 6–0. Drive: 4 plays, 5 yards, 1:31. IND – Albert Bentley 8-yard run (Dean Biasucci kick), 0:55. Colts 13–0. Drive: 13 plays, 80 yards, 6:28. Third quarter SDG – Vince Abbott 42-yard field goal, 11:04. Colts 13–3. Drive: 10 plays, 55 yards, 3:56. SDG – Vince Abbott 37-yard field goal, 3:12. Colts 13–6. Drive: 6 plays, 21 yards, 2:43. Fourth quarter SDG – Lionel James 5-yard pass from Dan Fouts (Vince Abbott kick), 12:47. Tied 13–13. Drive: 7 plays, 47 yards, 2:55. SDG – Vince Abbott 39-yard field goal, 0:12. Chargers 16–13. Drive: 11 plays, 59 yards, 3:54. Top passers SDG – Dan Fouts – 16/30, 214 yards, TD, 3 INT IND – Jack Trudeau – 12/18, 127 yards Top rushers SDG – Curtis Adams – 13 rushes, 52 yards IND – Eric Dickerson – 35 rushes, 138 yards Top receivers SDG – Wes Chandler – 4 receptions, 73 yards IND – Matt Bouza – 3 reception, 53 yards Humiston recovered a key fumble as San Diego fought back from a 13-point halftime deficit to win.Posner Jay Tough 'D,' last minute drive break the Colts https://www.newspapers.com/clip/103095940/chargers-16-13-colts-9-nov-1987/ C1, C3 Escondido Times-Advocate 9 November 1987 Indianapolis opened the game with an 8-minute field goal drive, and had crossed into Charger territory again when Charles sacked Jack Trudeau, forcing a fumble that Byrd recovered. In the 2nd quarter, two Fouts interceptions set up Colts field goal attempts, though Dean Biasucci missed the second of these. On the next Indianapolis drive, Eric Dickerson rushed 8 times for 50 yards, and Albert Bentley found the end zone for a 13–0 lead. Fouts was intercepted again on the final play of the half.1987 week 9 gamebook, Chargers at Colts November 8, 1987 https://www.profootballresearchers.org/members-only.html subscription June 18, 2022 June 11, 2022 https://web.archive.org/web/20220618090702/http://www.profootballresearchers.org/members-only.html dead The first drive of the second half ended with Abbott's 42-yard field goal. Indianapolis tried to convert a 4th and 1 from their own 40 on the following drive, but Banks stopped Bentley for no gain. San Diego reached a 3rd and 1 at the Indianapolis 18, whereupon Fouts fumbled; Center Don Macek recovered, allowing Abbott to kick another field goal, from 37 yards. The Chargers completed their third consecutive scoring drive early in the final quarter; Fouts converted a 3rd and 11 with a 23-yard completion to Chandler, then threw a 5-yard touchdown pass to James on 3rd and goal. After an exchange of punts, the Colts drove from their own 36 to a 1st and goal at the Charger 8. On the following play, Dickerson ran the ball inside the 2 before being tackled by several Chargers; Smith knocked the ball loose, and Humiston recovered in his own end zone with four minutes to play. San Diego then drove 59 yards on 11 plays, with Fouts completed all three of his passes for 40 yards. Abbot made the game-winning field goal from 39 yards with 12 seconds to play. San Diego improved in several areas after halftime. Their time of possession nearly doubled, from 7:48 to 14:23, while their defense gave up 12 first downs in the first half and 6 in the second. Dickerson gained 103 of his 138 yards before halftime.San Diego Chargers at Indianapolis Colts – November 8th, 1987 https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/198711080clt.htm pro-football-reference.com 3 June 2022 Week 10: vs. Los Angeles Raiders San Diego Chargers 1987 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week Ten: Los Angeles Raiders at San Diego Chargers – Game summary November 15 5:00 p.m. PST Raiders 0 0 0 14 Chargers 7 9 0 0 Jack Murphy Stadium, San Diego, California 60,639 60 °F 1, relative humidity 71%, wind 8 mph Pat Haggerty ESPN Mike Patrick, Roy Firestone and John Matuszak Box score First quarter SDG – Kellen Winslow 9-yard pass from Dan Fouts (Vince Abbott kick), 9:09. Chargers 7–0. Drive: 8 plays, 22 yards, 2:45. Second quarter SDG – Vince Abbott 38-yard field goal, 14:10. Tied 7–7. Drive: 8 plays, 64 yards. SDG – Vince Abbott 47-yard field goal, 12:18. Tied 7–7. Drive: 4 plays, 7 yards. SDG – Vince Abbott 39-yard field goal, 3:39. Tied 7–7. Drive: 11 plays, 29 yards. Third quarter No scoring plays. Fourth quarter RAI – Dokie Williams 5-yard pass from Marc Wilson (Chris Bahr kick), 8:01. Raiders 17–10. Drive: 3 plays, 19 yards, 1:23. RAI – James Lofton 47-yard pass from Marc Wilson (Chris Bahr kick), 0:16. Raiders 17–10. Drive: 4 plays, 72 yards, 0:39. Top passers RAI – Marc Wilson – 15/32, 228 yards, 2 TD, INT SDG – Dan Fouts – 15/32, 149 yards, TD, INT Top rushers RAI – Marcus Allen – 13 rushes, 82 yards SDG – Curtis Adams – 21 rushes, 75 yards Top receivers RAI – James Lofton – 3 reception, 84 yards, TD SDG – Kellen Winslow – 6 receptions, 53 yards, TD San Diego won their eighth straight game as a Raider rally fell short.Heisler Mark Raiders, going south, drop sixth straight https://www.newspapers.com/clip/103103133/chargers-16-14-raiders-16-nov-1987/ III-1, III-10 Los Angeles Times 16 November 1987 Smith intercepted Marc Wilson's first pass of the game and returned it 22 yards to the Raider 22. A defensive holding penalty on 3rd down prolonged the ensuing drive, and Fouts hit a wide open Winslow for a 9-yard touchdown on 3rd and 8. Bahr missed a 41-yard field goal on the next drive. Late in the opening quarter, another Charger drive was prolonged by a 3rd down penalty, this time of 30 yards – a pass interference drawn by Anderson. That led to a 38-yard field goal by Abbott; he then made a 47-yarder, after Jeff Jackson recovered a fumble in Raider territory. When Abbott was successful from 39 yards late in the half, San Diego led 16–0.1987 week 10 gamebook, Raiders at Chargers November 15, 1987 https://www.profootballresearchers.org/members-only.html subscription June 18, 2022 June 11, 2022 https://web.archive.org/web/20220618090702/http://www.profootballresearchers.org/members-only.html dead The first nine drives of the second half all ended in punts, with neither offense crossing the halfway line. In the final quarter, San Diego were able to advance from their own 3 to the Raider 41, aided by a 29-yard pass interference penalty, again drawn by Anderson. Fouts then overthrew his intended receiver, resulting in an interception and 58 yard return. Wilson threw a touchdown three plays later with eight minutes left. Aided by another Raider 3rd down penalty, the Chargers then ran over four minutes off the clock before punting. Los Angeles also punted, after reaching 4th and 13 at their own 33 with barely two minutes left. After a Charger three-and-out, the Raiders covered 72 yards in only four plays, scoring on James Lofton's 47-yard touchdown over Charles Romes with 16 seconds left. The ensuing onside kick went out of bounds, allowing San Diego to run out the clock. San Diego picked up only 88 yards in the second half, and were outgained 365–248 overall. They profited from 17 Raider penalties for 186 yards (the Chargers were penalized 7 times for 60 yards). 2022, this is tied for the most penalties given up by a Charger opponent, and top for penalty yards.Most penalty yards versus Chargers, game https://stathead.com/tiny/d8b09 stathead.com 3 June 2022 Week 11: at Seattle Seahawks San Diego Chargers 1987 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week Eleven: San Diego Chargers at Seattle Seahawks – Game summary November 22 1:00 p.m. PST Chargers 0 3 0 0 Seahawks 3 14 10 7 Kingdome, Seattle, Washington 62,444 N/A (game played indoors) Ben Dreith NBC Charlie Jones and Jimmy Cefalo Box score First quarter SEA – Norm Johnson 34-yard field goal, 12:46. Seahawks 3–0. Drive: 4 plays, 8 yards, 2:14. Second quarter SEA – John L. Williams 12-yard pass from Dave Krieg (Norm Johnson kick), 14:53. Seahawks 10–0. Drive: 4 plays, 54 yards, 2:48. SDG – Vince Abbott 33-yard field goal, 10:27. Seahawks 10–3. Drive: 10 plays, 65 yards, 4:26. SEA – Curt Warner 5-yard run (Norm Johnson kick), 6:13. Seahawks 17–3. Drive: 10 plays, 73 yards, 4:14. Third quarter SEA – Dave Krieg 11-yard run (Norm Johnson kick), 12:36. Seahawks 24–3. Drive: 5 plays, 78 yards, 2:24. SEA – Norm Johnson 22-yard field goal, 0:06. Seahawks 27–3. Drive: 12 plays, 66 yards, 7:11. Fourth quarter SEA – Steve Largent 5-yard pass from Dave Krieg (Norm Johnson kick), 9:14. Seahawks 34–3. Drive: 10 plays, 44 yards, 5:18. Top passers SDG – Mark Herrmann – 12/19, 140 yards, INT SEA – Dave Krieg – 19/26, 246 yards, 2 TD Top rushers SDG – Curtis Adams – 5 rushes, 12 yards SEA – Curt Warner – 23 rushes, 119 yards, TD Top receivers SDG – Gary Anderson – 5 receptions, 42 yardsSDG – Lionel James – 2 receptions, 42 yards SEA – Steve Largent – 5 reception, 84 yards, TD Seattle dominated San Diego to end their winning streak.Brazil Ted Seahawks dismantle San Diego 34–3 https://www.newspapers.com/clip/103112493/chargers-3-34-seahawks-23-nov-1987/ 1D, 4D The Olympian 23 November 1987 Anderson lost a fumble on the opening kickoff return, leading to a Seahawks' field goal. San Diego responded by driving into Seattle territory and attempting a 4th and 2 at the 44. Herrmann, starting at quarterback because Fouts had a calf injury, was unable to handle the snap, and the attempt failed. The Charger defense thwarted the next Seattle drive when Glenn forced a fumble and Smith recovered at his 10, but the Seahawks scored a touchdown on their following possession. A 34-yard catch by James set up the lone Charger score of the game (a 33-yard Abbott field goal), but Seattle came straight back with another touchdown, and led 17–3 at halftime. They continued to pull away in the second half. Fouts was inserted into the game, but was sacked twice and intercepted once before Herrmann came back in to finish.1987 week 11 gamebook, Chargers at Seahawks November 22, 1987 https://www.profootballresearchers.org/members-only.html subscription June 18, 2022 June 11, 2022 https://web.archive.org/web/20220618090702/http://www.profootballresearchers.org/members-only.html dead San Diego were outgained by 496 yards to 156, outrushed by 277 to 17, possessed the ball for 18:25 (including only 5:12 in the second half); Seattle generated 34 first downs to the Chargers' 6. The yardage differential of −340 was the worst in franchise history to that point, eventually being surpassed in 2003.300+ yardage differential versus Chargers https://stathead.com/tiny/wkJjZ stathead.com 4 June 2022 With the win, Seattle pulled within a game of the Chargers atop the AFC West.San Diego Chargers at Seattle Seahawks – November 22nd, 1987 https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/198711220sea.htm pro-football-reference.com 4 June 2022 Week 12: vs. Denver Broncos San Diego Chargers 1987 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week Twelve: Denver Broncos at San Diego Chargers – Game summary November 29 1:00 p.m. PST Broncos 7 10 14 0 Chargers 7 3 0 7 Jack Murphy Stadium, San Diego, California 61,880 60 °F 1, relative humidity 67%, wind 9 mph Gene Barth NBC Charlie Jones and Jimmy Cefalo Box score First quarter SDG – Vencie Glenn 103-yard interception return (Vince Abbott kick), 2:09. Chargers 7–0. DEN – Sammy Winder 1-yard run (Rich Karlis kick), 0:22. Tied 7–7. Drive: 5 plays, 77 yards, 1:47. Second quarter DEN – Ricky Nattiel 46-yard pass from John Elway (Rich Karlis kick), 8:53. Broncos 14–7. Drive: 9 plays, 85 yards, 4:32. SDG – Vince Abbott 32-yard field goal, 6:04. Broncos 14–10. Drive: 9 plays, 63 yards, 2:49. DEN – Rich Karlis 27-yard field goal, 1:09. Broncos 17–10. Drive: 13 plays, 76 yards, 4:55. Third quarter DEN – Gene Lang 5-yard pass from John Elway (Rich Karlis kick), 9:27. Broncos 24–10. Drive: 9 plays, 55 yards, 5:33. DEN – Vance Johnson 9-yard pass from John Elway (Rich Karlis kick), 1:20. Broncos 31–10. Drive: 9 plays, 80 yards, 4:24. Fourth quarter SDG – Curtis Adams 1-yard run (Vince Abbott kick), 14:06. Broncos 31–17. Drive: 7 plays, 82 yards, 2:04. Top passers DEN – John Elway – 21/32, 347 yards, 3 TD, INT SDG – Dan Fouts – 23/40, 322 yards, 2 INT Top rushers DEN – Gene Lang – 24 rushes, 73 yards SDG – Curtis Adams – 5 rushes, 38 yards, TD Top receivers DEN – Ricky Nattiel – 4 reception, 118 yards, TD SDG – Lionel James – 7 receptions, 37 yards Glenn's record-tying interception return wasn't enough to beat the Broncos, who drew within half a game of San Diego.Posner Jay Chargers best in West? Broncos don't believe it https://www.newspapers.com/clip/103147979/chargers-17-31-broncos-30-nov-1987/ C1, C3 Escondido Times-Advocate 30 November 1987 On Denver's first drive they drove 74 yards to a 2nd and goal at the Charger 6, before John Elway's pass was intercepted in the end zone by Glenn; he took off along the right sideline, slipped one tackle, benefitted from a block by Benson, and completed a 103-yard touchdown return, the joint-longest in league history at that point. Elway bounced back on his next two drives, a 51-yard completion setting up a touchdown run, and a 46-yard completion accounting for another touchdown. After an exchange of field goals, Fouts completed four passes for 58 yards, and the Chargers reached a 3rd and goal at the Denver 7 with 17 seconds left and no timeouts, trailing 17–10. Winslow caught Fouts' next pass inside the 1, but was ruled not to have broken the plane of the goal line before being pushed back by three Broncos. Time ran out before San Diego could attempt a field goal.1987 week 12 gamebook, Broncos at Chargers November 29, 1987 https://www.profootballresearchers.org/members-only.html subscription June 18, 2022 June 11, 2022 https://web.archive.org/web/20220618090702/http://www.profootballresearchers.org/members-only.html dead Denver extended their lead on their first two drives of the second half via two further Elway touchdown passes. After the second of these, the Chargers responded; Anderson had catches of 38 and 33 yards, and Adams scored on a 1-yard run with 14 minutes to play. Denver's next drive ended with a missed field goal, but ran seven minutes off the clock. Fouts drove San Diego into opposition territory before his deep pass was intercepted to effectively clinch the game for Denver. He was intercepted again in the final minute. Fouts completed 23 of 40 passes for 322 yards, with 2 interceptions.Denver Broncos at San Diego Chargers – November 29th, 1987 https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/198711290sdg.htm pro-football-reference.com 4 June 2022 The Chargers were again dominated in terms of time of possession, holding the ball for only 18:41. They gave up a season-high 522 yards of offense. While contemporary reports described Glenn's touchdown as a new record for an interception return, there had been a previous 103-yarder, by Pete Barnum in 1926.Canton SI beaten https://www.newspapers.com/clip/48742650/canton-si-beaten/ 17 Green Bay Press-Gazette 27 September 1926 The record was tied again by Louis Oliver in 1992 and eventually broken by Ed Reed in 2004.Interception return touchdowns, 103+ yards https://stathead.com/tiny/Fuwsu stathead.com 4 June 2022 Week 13: at Houston Oilers San Diego Chargers 1987 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week Thirteen: San Diego Chargers at Houston Oilers – Game summary December 6 12:00 p.m. CST Chargers 0 5 6 7 Oilers 10 10 7 6 Astrodome, Houston, Texas 31,714 N/A (game played indoors) Dick Hantak NBC Don Criqui and Bob Trumpy Box score First quarter HOU – Robert Lyles 55-yard defensive fumble return (Tony Zendejas kick), 12:25. Oilers 7–0. HOU – Tony Zendejas 48-yard field goal, 3:51. Oilers 10–0. Drive: 6 plays, 13 yards, 2:54. Second quarter HOU – Allen Pinkett 4-yard run (Tony Zendejas kick), 11:36. Oilers 17–0. Drive: 9 plays, 80 yards, 4:50. HOU – Tony Zendejas 47-yard field goal, 7:00. Oilers 20–0. Drive: 8 plays, 52 yards, 2:44. SDG – Safety, Lee Williams sacked Warren Moon in end zone, 4:53. Oilers 20–2. SDG – Vince Abbott 27-yard field goal, 0:06. Oilers 20–5. Drive: 7 plays, 69 yards, 1:25. Third quarter HOU – Mike Rozier 1-yard run (Tony Zendejas kick), 10:03. Oilers 27–5. Drive: 8 plays, 63 yards, 3:39. SDG – Kellen Winslow 6-yard pass from Dan Fouts (kick failed), 5:20. Oilers 27–11. Drive: 3 plays, 34 yards, 0:44. Fourth quarter HOU – Warren Moon 3-yard run (kick failed), 13:20. Oilers 33–11. Drive: 5 plays, 30 yards, 1:40. SDG – Gary Anderson 9-yard pass from Mark Herrmann (Vince Abbott kick), 0:26. Oilers 33–18. Drive: 8 plays, 63 yards, 1:46. Top passers SDG – Dan Fouts – 16/33, 196 yards, TD HOU – Warren Moon – 13/24, 186 yards, INT Top rushers SDG – Tim Spencer – 4 rushes, 16 yards HOU – Allen Pinkett – 11 rushes, 53 yards, TD Top receivers SDG – Wes Chandler – 10 receptions, 140 yards HOU – Ernest Givins – 5 reception, 93 yards San Diego fell out of first place in their division with a third straight loss.Posner Jay Chargers fumble, stumble out of first https://www.newspapers.com/clip/103159046/chargers-18-33-oilers-7-dec-1987/ C1, C2 Escondido Times-Advocate 7 December 1987 Glenn intercepted Warren Moon's first pass of the game, setting his offense up at the Oiler 30. Three plays later, Fouts was sacked on a blitz and fumbled; Houston ran the ball back 55 yards for a touchdown. Chandler later fumbled near midfield, setting up a Houston field goal, and the Oilers added ten more points on their following two drives. San Diego staged a mini-revival late in the half, with Lee Williams sacking Moon for a safety, and the offense driving to a 3rd and 5 at the Houston 10 with seven seconds to play. Saunders opted not to risk another play, settling for an Abbott field goal and a 20–5 halftime scoreline.1987 week 13 gamebook, Chargers at Oilers December 6, 1987 https://www.profootballresearchers.org/members-only.html subscription June 18, 2022 June 11, 2022 https://web.archive.org/web/20220618090702/http://www.profootballresearchers.org/members-only.html dead The Chargers drew no closer in the second half. Houston scored another touchdown the first time they had the ball, then James fumbled at the Oiler 5. Holland drew a 33-yard pass interference penalty on the next drive, and Fouts beat the Oiler blitz to find Winslow for a 6-yard touchdown. San Diego forced a punt, but Fouts again fumbled while being sacked, with Houston recovering at the Charger 30. That led to a touchdown run by Moon, and San Diego didn't score again until the final minute, when Herrmann threw a 9-yard touchdown to Anderson. Patterson and one Oiler were ejected for their roles in a fracas with one second left in the first half. Chandler caught 10 passes for 140 yards. San Diego outgained Houston by 8 yards (332–324), but fumbled four times and lost them all.San Diego Chargers at Houston Oilers – December 6th, 1987 https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/198712060oti.htm pro-football-reference.com 4 June 2022 Winslow's touchdown was the 45th and final one of his career.Kellen Winslow career touchdowns https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/W/WinsKe00/touchdowns/ pro-football-reference.com 4 June 2022 Week 14: vs. Pittsburgh Steelers San Diego Chargers 1987 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week Fourteen: Pittsburgh Steelers at San Diego Chargers – Game summary December 13 1:00 p.m. PST Steelers 0 7 10 3 Chargers 9 0 0 7 Jack Murphy Stadium, San Diego, California 51,605 53 °F 1, relative humidity 38%, wind 17 mph Jim Tunney NBC Don Criqui and Bob Trumpy Box score First quarter SDG – David Brandon recovered blocked punt in end zone (Vince Abbott kick), 9:13. Chargers 7–0. SDG – Safety, Chuck Ehin sacked Mark Malone in end zone, 0:36. Chargers 9–0. Second quarter PIT – Frank Pollard 8-yard run (Gary Anderson kick), 5:23. Chargers 9–7. Drive: 4 plays, 39 yards, 2:43. Third quarter PIT – Mark Malone 7-yard run (Gary Anderson kick), 8:14. Steelers 14–9. Drive: 5 plays, 69 yards, 1:30. PIT – Gary Anderson 43-yard field goal, 0:37. Steelers 17–9. Drive: 6 plays, 45 yards, 3:56. Fourth quarter PIT – Gary Anderson 33-yard field goal, 9:04. Steelers 20–9. Drive: 10 plays, 46 yards, 5:01. SDG – Lionel James 15-yard pass from Dan Fouts (Vince Abbott kick), 2:56. Steelers 20–16. Drive: 8 plays, 58 yards, 1:35. Top passers PIT – Mark Malone – 13/26, 164 yards SDG – Dan Fouts – 29/52, 334 yards, TD, INT Top rushers PIT – Frank Pollard – 14 rushes, 44 yards, TD SDG – Tim Spencer – 11 rushes, 47 yards Top receivers PIT – Weegie Thompson – 4 reception, 73 yards SDG – Wes Chandler – 7 receptions, 116 yards Numerous errors cost the Chargers a chance to move back into first place.Posner Jay Steelers chill Chargers' playoff bid https://www.newspapers.com/clip/103191606/chargers-16-20-steelers-14-dec-1987/ C1, C2 Escondido Times-Advocate 14 December 1987 Fouts fumbled a handoff to Spencer on the game's second play, but Charles forced Pittsburgh quarterback Mark Malone to fumble in turn a play later, with Smith recovering. San Diego advanced to the Steeler 12 before turning the ball over with a further fumble, this time by Adams. However, they scored soon afterwards when Glenn blocked a punt and Brandon recovered in the end zone. After Pittsburgh missed a field goal, Winslow was ruled just short of the end zone on a 30-yard catch. Anderson appeared to have run for a touchdown on the following play, but McKnight's illegal motion penalty negated the score. Three plays later, the Chargers went for it on 4th and goal from the 1, but Spencer fumbled as he reached for the end zone. San Diego's defense was able convert the good field position into two points on the next play, as Chuck Ehin sacked Malone in the end zone for a safety. Pittsburgh shanked the ensuing free kick, but Daniel Hunter failed to gather the ball at the Steeler 43. In the 2nd quarter, James fumbled on a punt return, leaving the Steelers to drive only 39 yards for their first touchdown of the day. After Abbott missed a 42-yard field goal in the final minute of the half, San Diego led only 9–7.1987 week 14 gamebook, Steelers at Chargers December 13, 1987 https://www.profootballresearchers.org/members-only.html subscription June 18, 2022 June 11, 2022 https://web.archive.org/web/20220618090702/http://www.profootballresearchers.org/members-only.html dead The Chargers appeared to have earned a 1st down on the Steeler 13 on their first possession of the second half, but Chandler's 22-yard catch was wiped out by another illegal motion penalty, this time on Holohan. That drive ended with Abbott's 48-yard field goal falling short and to the left. Pittsburgh then took the lead, driving 69 yards in only five plays, with Malone running the ball in from the 7. After a third consecutive Charger drive ended in a missed Abbott field goal (short again and wide right, from 46 yards), the Steelers added two Gary Anderson field goals to lead 20–9. San Diego quickly moved into Pittsburgh territory, but a deflected Fouts pass was intercepted with seven minutes to play. The Steeles went three-and-out, and San Diego drove 58 yards in 8 plays to get back into the game. Fouts converted a 4th and 10 with a 14-yard pass to Chandler, and connected with James for back-to-back 15-yard gains, the latter for a touchdown. Following another Steeler three-and-out, San Diego began their final possession on their own 20 with 1:50 to play. Chandler began the drive with a 17-yard catch, Spencer converted a 4th and 1 with a 10-yard carry, and a 20-yard Chandler reception moved the ball to the Pittsburgh 24 with 22 seconds left. From there, Fouts threw four consecutive incompletions. The Chargers outgained Pittsburgh by 435 yards to 254, but committed five of the game's six turnovers, losing four fumbles for the second consecutive week. Chandler caught 7 passes for 116 yards. Fouts completed 29 of 52 passes for 334 yards, one touchdown and one interception.Pittsburgh Steelers at San Diego Chargers – December 13th, 1987 https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/198712130sdg.htm pro-football-reference.com 5 June 2022 The touchdown pass was the 254th and final one of his career.Dan Fouts career passing touchdowns https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/F/FoutDa00/touchdowns/passing pro-football-reference.com 5 June 2022 Week 15: vs. Indianapolis Colts San Diego Chargers 1987 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week Fifteen: Indianapolis Colts at San Diego Chargers – Game summary December 20 1:00 p.m. PST Colts 7 6 0 7 Chargers 7 0 0 0 Jack Murphy Stadium, San Diego, California 46,211 53 °F 1, relative humidity 80%, wind 7 mph Jerry Markbreit NBC Don Criqui and Paul Maguire Box score First quarter SDG – Dan Fouts 1-yard run (Vince Abbott kick), 7:59. Chargers 7–0. Drive: 13 plays, 74 yards, 7:01. IND – Bill Brooks 42-yard pass from Jack Trudeau (Dean Biasucci kick), 2:53. Tied 7–7. Drive: 7 plays, 74 yards, 2:51. Second quarter IND – Dean Biasucci 36-yard field goal, 3:18. Colts 10–7. Drive: 12 plays, 47 yards, 6:02. IND – Dean Biasucci 41-yard field goal, 0:01. Colts 13–7. Drive: 9 plays, 41 yards, 1:07. Third quarter No scoring plays. Fourth quarter IND – Albert Bentley 3-yard run (Dean Biasucci kick), 1:53. Colts 20–7. Drive: 3 plays, 68 yards, 0:57. Top passers IND – Jack Trudeau – 20/39, 201 yards, TD SDG – Dan Fouts – 22/37, 257 yards, 3 INT Top rushers IND – Eric Dickerson – 23 rushes, 115 yards SDG – Curtis Adams – 7 rushes, 26 yards Top receivers IND – Bill Brooks – 4 reception, 86 yards, TD SDG – Gary Anderson – 7 receptions, 68 yards A fifth straight loss nearly eliminated the Chargers from playoff contention.Posner Jay Chargers wait 'til next year again https://www.newspapers.com/clip/103195879/chargers-7-20-colts-21-dec-1987/ C1, C2 Escondido Times-Advocate 21 December 1987 They began the game well, taking the opening kickoff and driving 74 yards in 13 plays to take the lead. Fouts completed 5 of 5 passes for 56 yards, and scored on a 4th-down quarterback sneak. Indianapolis tied the score later in the 1st quarter when Bill Brooks took advantage of a coverage error by Bayless on a 42-yard touchdown catch. The Chargers reached the Colts' 25 yard line in the 2nd quarter, but Fouts took a 3rd-down sack and Abbott was short and left on a 52-yard field goal try. Indianapolis scored through a pair of Biasucci field goals on their final two possessions of the half, and led 13–7.1987 week 15 gamebook, Colts at Chargers December 20, 1987 https://www.profootballresearchers.org/members-only.html subscription June 18, 2022 June 11, 2022 https://web.archive.org/web/20220618090702/http://www.profootballresearchers.org/members-only.html dead Neither team advanced further than the opposition 34 during the first twelve possessions of the second half; Indianapolis punted six times, while San Diego punted four times and Fouts was intercepted twice. Eventually, Dickerson broke off a 53-yard run and Bentley scored on the play after the two minute warning. Fouts threw incomplete on 4th and 2 from the Colt 26 in the final minute, and was intercepted as time expired. Fouts completed 22 of 37 attempts for 257 yards and 3 interceptions, while being sacked 5 times for the loss of 43 yards.Indianapolis Colts at San Diego Chargers – December 20th, 1987 https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/198712200sdg.htm pro-football-reference.com 5 June 2022 It was the final game of his career, as he missed the finale with a slightly torn rotator cuff,Broncos seeking AFC West crown, best mark https://www.newspapers.com/clip/94383283/fouts-cuff-27-dec-1987/ UPI B-4 Auburn Journal 27 December 1987 and announced his retirement three months after the end of the season.Hewitt Brian Fouts elects not to push his luck, retires https://www.newspapers.com/clip/94385735/fouts-retires-25-mar-1988/ III-1, III-9 Los Angeles Times 25 March 1988 The result meant that San Diego would be eliminated if either the Steelers or Oilers won in week 16, regardless of their own result. Week 16: at Denver Broncos San Diego Chargers 1987 2;text-align:center; autocollapse Week Sixteen: San Diego Chargers at Denver Broncos – Game summary December 27 2:00 p.m. MST Chargers 0 0 0 0 Broncos 14 0 0 10 Mile High Stadium, Denver, Colorado 21,189 18 °F 1, relative humidity 91%, wind 17 mph, wind chill 3 Fred Wyant NBC Charlie Jones and Jimmy Cefalo Box score First quarter DEN – Kevin Clark 71-yard punt return (Rich Karlis kick), 13:10. Broncos 7–0. DEN – Sammy Winder 1-yard run (Rich Karlis kick), 1:04. Broncos 14–0. Drive: 7 plays, 38 yards, 4:20. Second quarter No scoring plays. Third quarter No scoring plays. Fourth quarter DEN – Rich Karlis 26-yard field goal, 11:10. Broncos 17–0. Drive: 12 plays, 70 yards, 6:42. DEN – Ricky Hunley 52-yard interception return (Rich Karlis kick), 10:00. Broncos 24–0. Top passers SDG – Mark Herrmann – 13/23, 123 yards, 4 INT DEN – John Elway – 7/20, 98 yards, INT Top rushers SDG – Tim Spencer – 5 rushes, 38 yards, TD DEN – Sammy Winder – 23 rushes, 67 yards, TD Top receivers SDG – Jamie Holland – 3 receptions, 64 yards DEN – Orson Mobley – 2 reception, 35 yards San Diego's season ended with a shutout in a Denver blizzard.Posner Jay Snow can't soften Chargers' collapse https://www.newspapers.com/clip/103201173/chargers-0-24-broncos-28-dec-1987/ C1, C2 Escondido Times-Advocate 28 December 1987 They were confirmed to have missed the playoffs during the 1st quarter, when Houston completed a victory over the Cincinnati Bengals. By then, the Chargers already trailed to a 71-yard punt return touchdown. Denver added a second touchdown later in the quarter, with San Diego yet to register a first down after three possessions. The Chargers were inside the Denver 30 three times in the 2nd quarter, but Herrmann was intercepted twice, and Abbott missed a 26-yard field goal. The Chargers gained only 22 yards and a single first down after halftime, while Denver added a field goal and an interception-return touchdown.1987 week 16 gamebook, Chargers at Broncos December 27, 1987 https://www.profootballresearchers.org/members-only.html subscription June 18, 2022 June 11, 2022 https://web.archive.org/web/20220618090702/http://www.profootballresearchers.org/members-only.html dead Herrmann finished with 13 completions from 23 attempts for 123 yards, with 4 interceptions; backup Vlasic added a fifth interception on his debut appearance. Winslow caught 6 passes for 44 yards.San Diego Chargers at Denver Broncos – December 27th, 1987 https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/198712270den.htm pro-football-reference.com 5 June 2022 It was the final regular season game of his career, as he retired during the 1988 season without playing again.Hewitt Brian Winslow's career ends with settlement https://www.newspapers.com/clip/103202522/winslow-retires-1-oct-1988/ III-17A Los Angeles Times 1 October 1988 Standings Awards Three Chargers were named to the 1988 Pro Bowl,1987 NFL Pro Bowlers https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1987/probowl.htm pro-football-reference.com 5 June 2022 each of whom was also named a 2nd-team All-Pro by the Associated Press.1987 NFL All-Pros https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/1987/allpro.htm pro-football-reference.com 5 June 2022 Player Position Pro Bowl starter Pro Bowl reserve AP 2nd team All-Pro NEA 2nd team All-Pro Jim Lachey Tackle Ralf Mojsiejenko Punter Kellen Winslow Tight end References San Diego Chargers Category:San Diego Chargers seasons Category:1980s in San Diego San Diego Chargers f