Introduction
The Los Angeles Chargers, a storied franchise in the National Football League (NFL), have seen a myriad of head coaches since their inception in 1960. Each coach has left an indelible mark on the team, influencing its culture, performance, and fan connection. This article will explore the history of Chargers head coaches, highlighting their coaching styles, major achievements, and unforgettable moments.
The Beginnings: Early Coaches (1960-1969)
The Chargers were founded in 1960 and initially played in the American Football League (AFL). The first head coach, Sid Gillman, set the stage for the franchise’s offensive prowess.
Sid Gillman (1960-1961)
Gillman is often considered one of the fathers of the modern passing game. His innovative offensive strategies helped the Chargers to their first AFL Championship in 1963.
Jack Faulkner (1962-1963)
Faulkner took over from Gillman and had a mixed record, yet he helped maintain the team’s competitive edge during a transitional period.
Comparison of Early Coaches
| Coach | Years | Record | Notable Achievement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sid Gillman | 1960-1961 | 15-11 | AFL Championship (1963) |
| Jack Faulkner | 1962-1963 | 10-12 | Maintained competitiveness |
The AFL to NFL Transition (1970-1979)
The merger of the AFL and NFL in 1970 marked a new era for the Chargers. This decade saw significant changes in coaching philosophies and team dynamics.
Charlie Waller (1971-1973)
During Waller’s tenure, the Chargers struggled to find consistency. His defensive approach was overshadowed by offensive struggles.
Don Coryell (1978-1986)
Coryell revolutionized the passing game with his “Air Coryell” offense, leading the Chargers to multiple playoff appearances. His impact is still felt in modern NFL offenses.
Impact of Coaches in the 1970s
| Coach | Years | Record | Notable Achievement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Charlie Waller | 1971-1973 | 12-27 | Transitioning to NFL |
| Don Coryell | 1978-1986 | 69-26 | Multiple playoff appearances |
The 1980s: Success and Challenges
The ’80s were a rollercoaster for the Chargers, filled with highs and lows. The team became a consistent playoff contender but struggled to break through in the postseason.
Al Saunders (1986-1988)
Saunders served as Coryell’s offensive coordinator before becoming head coach, maintaining the offensive philosophy while trying to establish a strong defense.
Dan Henning (1989-1991)
Henning’s tenure saw mixed results, but he helped develop key players, including quarterback Stan Humphries, who would later lead the team to its first Super Bowl appearance.
Coaching Performance in the 1980s
| Coach | Years | Record | Notable Achievement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Al Saunders | 1986-1988 | 24-24 | Offensive innovation |
| Dan Henning | 1989-1991 | 18-26 | Developed Stan Humphries |
The 1990s: Rise to Prominence
The ’90s were a significant turning point for the Chargers, culminating in their first Super Bowl appearance.
June Jones (1992-1993)
Jones implemented a high-octane offense but struggled to find success and was replaced after two seasons.
Kevin Gilbride (1997-1998)
Gilbride took over in the late ’90s and introduced a more balanced offensive strategy that led the team to its most successful seasons.
Key Coaches of the 1990s
| Coach | Years | Record | Notable Achievement |
|---|---|---|---|
| June Jones | 1992-1993 | 10-22 | Innovated offensive plays |
| Kevin Gilbride | 1997-1998 | 9-23 | Transition to a balanced attack |
The 2000s: Super Bowl Glory and Challenges
A new century brought fresh hope for the Chargers with talented players and promising coaching prospects.
Marty Schottenheimer (2002-2006)
Schottenheimer brought a winning mentality, leading the Chargers to the playoffs multiple times, including a memorable 2006 season, where they finished 14-2.
Norv Turner (2007-2012)
Turner continued Schottenheimer’s legacy but faced criticisms for his play-calling in crucial moments, especially during the playoffs.
Coaching Highlights of the 2000s
| Coach | Years | Record | Notable Achievement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marty Schottenheimer | 2002-2006 | 47-33 | Multiple playoff appearances |
| Norv Turner | 2007-2012 | 56-40 | 14-2 season (2006) |
Recent Years: A New Era (2013-Present)
The Chargers have experienced significant upheaval and change in recent years, including a move from San Diego to Los Angeles.
Mike McCoy (2013-2016)
McCoy brought a fresh approach but was ultimately let go after failing to reach the playoffs.
Anthony Lynn (2017-2020)
Lynn revitalized the team, leading them to the playoffs in 2018. His leadership emphasized player development and community engagement.
Brandon Staley (2021-Present)
Staley, known for his defensive acumen, aims to lead the Chargers back to prominence. His innovative strategies have revitalized the team’s performance.
Recent Coaching History
| Coach | Years | Record | Notable Achievement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mike McCoy | 2013-2016 | 28-38 | Focused on offense |
| Anthony Lynn | 2017-2020 | 33-31 | Playoff appearance (2018) |
| Brandon Staley | 2021-Present | Record in progress | Innovative defensive strategies |
Coaching Philosophy: Styles and Impacts
The coaching styles of the Chargers head coaches have varied greatly, creating unique team cultures over the years. Here are a few key coaching philosophies:
Offensive Focus
Coaches like Don Coryell and Norv Turner emphasized offensive creativity, leading to record-setting seasons and thrilling games that engaged fans.
Defensive Strategies
Brandon Staley represents a new wave of defensive innovation, focusing on analytics and player versatility to strengthen the Chargers’ defense.
Pros and Cons of Coaching Styles
| Coaching Style | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Offensive Focus | High-scoring games, fan engagement | Defensive weaknesses may emerge |
| Defensive Strategies | Strong defense, strategic play | Offensive struggles can lead to low scores |
Fan Engagement and Community Impact
The Chargers’ head coaches have not only shaped the team’s performance but also its community involvement. Successful coaches have embraced their roles as community leaders and have encouraged players to participate in charitable activities, enhancing the team’s image and fostering a strong fanbase.
Coaches as Community Leaders
Coaches like Anthony Lynn have emphasized the importance of community service, leading initiatives that connect players with local charities and schools.
The Role of Chargers Fans
The passionate Chargers fanbase plays an essential role in the team’s culture, providing unwavering support through both victories and defeats. Coaches understand the significance of maintaining strong ties with fans, leading open practices and community events.
Conclusion
The history of Chargers head coaches reflects the evolution of the NFL and highlights the impact of leadership on a team’s destiny. From Sid Gillman’s innovative passing attack to Brandon Staley’s analytical defense, each coach has contributed to the Chargers’ journey. As the franchise continues to navigate future challenges, the legacy of its head coaches will undoubtedly shape its path.
FAQs about Chargers Head Coaches
Who was the first head coach of the Chargers?
The first head coach of the Chargers was Sid Gillman, who coached the team from 1960 to 1961.
Which head coach led the Chargers to their first Super Bowl appearance?
Dan Henning was the head coach during the 1994 season when the Chargers made their first Super Bowl appearance (Super Bowl XXIX).
Who is the current head coach of the Chargers?
The current head coach of the Los Angeles Chargers is Brandon Staley, who took over in 2021.
How many head coaches have the Chargers had in their history?
As of 2023, the Chargers have had a total of 16 head coaches since the franchise’s inception.