Since its inception, the LA Chargers’ quarterback position has been graced by some of the NFL’s most talented and electrifying players—42 in total. These signal-callers have etched their names in Chargers lore with record-breaking performances and game-winning drives. Let’s count down the 10 best LA Chargers quarterbacks of all time.
Philip Rivers (2004 – 2019)
Philip Rivers, the Chargers’ all-time leader in passing yards and touchdowns, displayed grit and determination during his 16-year career. Rivers retired as a Chargers legend. He earned eight Pro Bowl selections, led the team to six playoff appearances and four division titles, and helped secure their first playoff win since 1994.
John Hadl (1962 – 1972)
Before Rivers, there was John Hadl, the Chargers’ original passing maestro. This quarterback, who won the 1963 AFL Championship with the Chargers, was a four-time AFL All-Star and a two-time Pro Bowler. Hadl twice led the AFL in passing yards and touchdowns and helped establish the Chargers as a dominant force.
Dan Fouts (1973 – 1987)
As a key leader during the Chargers’ Air Coryell era, this quarterback was part of the franchise from 1973 to 1987. Dan led NFL passing yards from 1979 to 1982, obtained six Pro Bowl selections, and the 1982 Offensive Player of the Year honor. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1993.
Stan Humphries (1992 – 1997)
Acquired by the Chargers in 1992, Stan Humphrey turned the team around from an 0–4 start to an 11-5 record and ended a decade-long playoff drought. He led San Diego to Super Bowl XXIX, making a historic two-point conversion. His clutch performances solidified his legacy in Chargers history.
Tobin Rote (1963 –1964)
The Chargers sought a quarterback in 1963, and he delivered and guided the team to an 11–3 record and the Western Division title. Named first-team All-AFL and AP Player of the Year, he guided San Diego to a dominating 51-10 victory in the AFL Championship Game before retiring in 1965.
Drew Brees (2001 – 2005)
Drafted by the Chargers in 2001, Brees initially faced challenges. Drew thrived in 2004, winning a 12–4 record and earning Pro Bowl honors. He showcased his talent with a career-high 3,576 passing yards and 27 touchdowns, solidifying his legacy as a dynamic playmaker for San Diego.
Jack Kemp (1957 – 1962)
Kemp, the Chargers’ original starting quarterback, led the team to a Western Division Championship in 1960 with a 10-4 record. Kemp set league records in passing, became the first AFL player to exceed 3,000 yards, and maintained a franchise record regular-season winning percentage of 0.786.
Justin Herbert (2020 – Present)
After taking over as the Chargers’ starting quarterback in his rookie season, Herbert shattered records with 31 touchdown passes and 396 completions. His impressive performances earned him the AP NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year title and reinforced his standing as the league’s emerging star and a franchise cornerstone.
Doug Flutie (2001 – 2004)
Joining the Chargers in 2001, Flutie initially backed up Drew Brees before stepping in as a starter later that season. Flutie made history by becoming the oldest player to score two running touchdowns in one game and later broke the record for the oldest player to score a touchdown at age 42.
Jim Harbaugh (1999 – 2000)
Before becoming an NFL coach, Harbaugh added veteran leadership to the Chargers’ locker room. Harbaugh stepped in as a starter after Ryan Leaf’s injury, leading the team to an 8–8 record. He started 12 games and completed 249 passes for 2,761 yards, ten touchdowns, and 14 interceptions.
10 Legendary LA Chargers Quarterbacks Who Lit Up The Field