List of Los Angeles Chargers first-round draft picks

They began play in Los Angeles in 1960 as charter members of the American Football League (AFL),[1] switched cities to San Diego the following season,[2] and returned to the Greater Los Angeles area in 2017.

[8] Unlike all future picks, he was not chosen by the Chargers themselves, but rather assigned in a territorial draft at a meeting of the AFL's original owners.

[4] Over a decade later, the original United States Football League (USFL) challenged the NFL by conducting its own collegiate drafts from 1983 to 1986.

Three have been elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame: Kellen Winslow, Seau and LaDainian Tomlinson.

The team's most recent first-round pick was Joe Alt, an offensive tackle from Notre Dame selected No.

Ohio State, Tennessee, Texas, TCU and Notre Dame are tied for the most players chosen by the Chargers from one university, with three selections each.

Photograph of Justin Herbert
The Los Angeles Chargers selected quarterback Justin Herbert No. 6 overall in 2020.
Photograph of Kellen Winslow
The Chargers traded up to draft future Hall of Fame tight end Kellen Winslow in 1979.
Photograph of Junior Seau
Hall of Fame linebacker Junior Seau was drafted No. 5 overall in 1990. He made 12 Pro Bowls in 13 seasons in San Diego.
Photograph of LaDainian Tomlinson
Hall of Fame running back LaDainian Tomlinson was selected No. 5 overall by the Chargers in 2001.