A.J. Smith, Former general manager of Chargers dies at 75

Former Chargers general manager A.J. Smith, known for his significant contributions to the NFL franchise, passed away on Sunday, May 12, 2024, at the age of 75.

His son, Kyle Smith, assistant general manager for the Atlanta Falcons, confirmed his father’s death in a statement released by the Falcons. According to Kyle Smith, A.J. Smith had been battling prostate cancer for seven years.

Smith’s career in the NFL spanned 35 years, beginning as a part-time scout with the New York Giants in 1977.

He had two separate stints with the Chargers, initially serving as pro personnel director in 1985-86.

After spending 14 seasons with the Buffalo Bills, where he ascended to the role of director of player personnel, Smith returned to San Diego as assistant GM in 2001. He was later promoted to general manager in 2003 following the passing of John Butler.

Under Smith’s tenure as GM, the Chargers clinched five division titles in 10 seasons. The franchise’s 98 wins, including playoff victories, ranked sixth in the league from 2003-2012.

Despite the team’s regular-season success, they fell short of reaching the Super Bowl during Smith’s tenure. The closest they came was in the 2007 AFC championship game, where they were defeated by the New England Patriots.

Smith gained attention for his decision to dismiss Marty Schottenheimer as head coach after the 2006 season, following the Chargers’ playoff loss to New England despite a 14-2 regular-season record.

He advocated for the hiring of Norv Turner as coach, despite Turner’s mixed record from previous coaching stints.

During Turner’s initial three seasons as head coach, the Chargers made consecutive playoff appearances. However, both Turner and Smith were relieved of their duties after a second consecutive losing season in 2012.

Throughout his career, Smith also worked for the New England Patriots, Houston Oilers, and Washington Football Team in the NFL, as well as the Chicago and Pittsburgh teams in the USFL.

Smith is survived by his wife, Susan, his son Kyle, daughter Andrea, son-in-law Noah, and three grandchildren.