Chargers fire Coach Norv Turner, General Manager A.J. Smith
It’s official: Coach Norv Turner and General Manager A.J. Smith are out in San Diego.
The Chargers have fired the tandem after the team missed the playoffs for the third consecutive season.
“I thank A.J. and Norv for the determination and integrity they brought to the Chargers each and every day,” Chargers owner Dean Spanos said in a written release. “Both Norv and A.J. are consummate NFL professionals, and they understand that in this league, the bottom line is winning. My only goal is the Super Bowl, and that is why I have decided to move in a new direction with both our head coach and general manager positions. I am committed to our great fans, and we will do whatever we possibly can to achieve that goal.”
Smith joined the Chargers as assistant general manager in 2001 before being promoted to general manager in 2003 following the death of John Butler.
In 2007, Smith made the somewhat controversial decision to fire coach Marty Schottenheimer after a 14-2 season -- but a one-and-done ouster from the playoffs -- and replace him with Turner, who had formerly coached the Redskins and Raiders.
Turner was 55-40 in seven seasons with the Chargers. His career record is 114-122-1.
ALSO:
Chicago Bears fire Coach Lovie Smith; Buffalo Bills fire Chan Gailey
Philadelphia Eagles fire Coach Andy Reid after 14 seasons
Get our high school sports newsletter
Prep Rally is devoted to the SoCal high school sports experience, bringing you scores, stories and a behind-the-scenes look at what makes prep sports so popular.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
