Ex-Raider Buczkowski Signed by Chargers

Defensive end Bob Buczkowski, a one-time first-round draft pick whose career has been hampered by injury and illness, signed as a free agent Thursday with the San Diego Chargers.

Buczkowski, a 6-foot-5, 265-pound defensive end, was out of football last season after being released by the Raiders during the 1988 exhibition season.

He was a first-round draft choice of the Raiders in 1986 and the 24th player selected overall.

A standout at Pittsburgh, where he was named defensive player of the year as a senior, Buczkowski was sidelined by a back injury during his rookie season.

He played only two games in 1987 because of a bout with hepatitis and injuries.