San Diego Chargers President Dean Spanos announced today that General Manager A.J. Smith and Head Coach Norv Turner will not return in 2013.
“I thank A.J. and Norv for the determination and integrity they brought to the Chargers each and every day,” said Spanos. “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 becoming general manager in 2003 following the passing of John Butler. During his 10 seasons, the team won five AFC West Division titles (2004, ‘06-09). Only five teams won more games than the Chargers during the past 10 seasons. The Chargers’ 98 wins (playoffs included) during Smith’s tenure are the most by the team during any general manager’s tenure in San Diego. Prior to the 2012 season, Smith had acquired 15 players who went on to earn Pro Bowl recognition, most in the NFL during his tenure.
Turner produced an overall record of 59-43 (.578%) with the Chargers, including 56-40 (.583%) during the regular season. His overall record with the Chargers against the AFC West was 25-11, including 9-3 versus Oakland and Kansas City, and a 7-5 record against Denver. The Chargers won three division titles and had three second place finishes in the AFC West under Turner (2007-12). That includes an appearance in the 2007 AFC Championship Game. Turner is tied with Don Coryell and Bobby Ross for the most playoff wins in team history (three). Turner’s regular-season record in San Diego after October 31 was 36-17, including 24-5 in December and January.
