San Diego Chargers Top 10 Players of All-Time

Aug 2, 2014; Canton, OH, USA; Charlie Joiner waves to the crowd at the TimkenSteel Grand Parade on Cleveland Avenue in advance of the 2014 Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

7).WR Charlie Joiner (1976-1986) HOF ’96

Other than Lance Alworth, Charlie Joiner (pictured above) is perhaps one of the greatest receiver in Chargers history. In an illustrious 19-year, hall-of-fame career, Joiner was one of the game’s greatest early receiving talents. In his 11 years with the Chargers, Joiner caught 586 passes for 9,203 yards and 47 touchdowns. Joiner has little over half of the touchdowns that Alworth obtained and 381 receiving yards less than the great Bambi. Where Joiner does have Alworth is in his career receptions (586 receptions compared to Alworth’s 493).

Joiner is ranked highly on this list not only for his four 1,000-yard seasons, but for his longevity. The ability to play another 11 years in the league after already completing eight years prior with other teams is amazing. Thanks to Joiner’s play, the Bolts made the playoffs in four straight seasons from 1979-1982.

Although he wasn’t as dominating as Alworth or Gates, Joiner definitely deserves a place on this list for his production despite his age. Typically players deteriorate with age. Joiner was an exception to that rule and proved to be one of the Chargers greats.

Next: Greatest Chargers Ever: Mixing It Up