2005 San Diego Chargers season
| 2005 San Diego Chargers season | |
|---|---|
| Owner | Alex Spanos |
| General manager | A.J. Smith |
| Head coach | Marty Schottenheimer |
| Home stadium | Qualcomm Stadium |
| Results | |
| Record | 9–7 |
| Division place | 3rd AFC West |
| Playoffs | Did not qualify |
| All-Pros | 4
|
| Pro Bowlers | |
The 2005 San Diego Chargers season was the franchise's 36th season in the National Football League (NFL), 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 New England Patriots (41–17) and the previously undefeated Indianapolis Colts (26–17). 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.