Shane Nelson Is Newest Charger

Free agent linebacker Shane Nelson, who missed virtually all of the past three seasons while recuperating from a severe knee injury, has been signed by the Chargers, the club announced Tuesday.

Nelson (6-3, 229) is a seven-year pro who had played out his option with the Buffalo Bills and elected to sign with San Diego after also negotiating with New Orleans and Seattle.

Voted Buffalo’s most valuable player from 1979 through 1981, Nelson suffered a tear of the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee in the opening game of the 1982 season and has not played since.

After he submitted to strength and agility testing by the Chargers, the decision was made to add him to the Chargers’ linebacker corps.

Nelson, who expects to be used primarily against the run on first and second downs, said he doesn’t fear being gun-shy after such a long absence from the game.

“I’m totally confident about being able to come back. My right leg is stronger than my other leg now, and I know I won’t be afraid to stick my head in there and stop a runner,” he said.