Chargers Hire Defensive Coach

The Chargers expanded their coaching staff to an even dozen Monday with the addition of Gunther Cunningham, who was named a special defensive assistant.

Cunningham, 38, was the line coach of the Baltimore and Indianapolis Colts the past three seasons. In his role with the Chargers, he will work with other defensive coaches, coordinate the evaluation of pro personnel and scout upcoming opponents.

Cunningham, who was raised in Lompoc, Calif., graduated from the University of Oregon in 1968 and spent 13 years coaching at the collegiate level, including jobs at Oregon, Arkansas, Stanford and California.