2005 San Diego Chargers season


The San Diego Chargers season was the franchise's 36th season in the National Football League, and the 46th overall. The Chargers failed to improve on their 12–4 record in 2004, and finished the campaign 9–7 and 3rd overall in their division, missing out on the playoffs for the first time since 2003. Outside linebacker Shawne Merriman was named Rookie of the Year at the end of the season.
Despite missing the playoffs, the Chargers defeated some of the best teams in the NFL, such as the two time defending Super Bowl champions [2005 2005 New England Patriots season|New England Patriots season|New England Patriots] and the previously undefeated [2005 2005 Indianapolis Colts season|Indianapolis Colts season|Indianapolis Colts]. Following the season, Drew Brees signed as a free agent with the New Orleans Saints. Brees was replaced by Philip Rivers who became a starter for the Chargers for the next 14 seasons.

Regular season

Schedule

In addition to their regular games with AFC West rivals, the Chargers played teams from the AFC East and NFC East as per the schedule rotation, and also played intraconference games against the Steelers and the Colts based on divisional positions from 2004.
Note: Intra-division opponents are in bold text.

Game summaries

Week 8: vs. Kansas City Chiefs


Awards

Six Chargers were named to the 2006 Pro Bowl, and four were named first or second team Associated Press All-Pros. Merriman won the AP NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year with of the 50 available votes.
PlayerPositionPro Bowl starterPro Bowl reserveAP 1st team All-ProAP 2nd team All-Pro
Antonio GatesTight end
Shawne MerrimanLinebacker
Hanik MilliganSpecial teams
Lorenzo NealFullback
LaDainian TomlinsonRunning back
Jamal WilliamsDefensive tackle