Charlie Joiner - Definition and Overview

Charles Joiner Jr. is a former football player who starred in the NFL for eighteen seasons, virtually exclusively at the position of wide receiever. He was elected into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1996.

Joiner graduated from Grambling State University in 1969 and was drafted in the fourth round by the Houston Oilers, with whom he played until 1972, when he was traded to Cincinnati. From 1972 to 1975 he played for the Cincinnati Bengals. In 1975 he was traded to the San Diego Chargers, with whom he remained for eleven seasons before retiring as a player after the 1986 season. It was with the Chargers' high flying "Air Coryell" offense under coach Don Coryell that Joiner had his most productive years, exceeding 1000 yards receiving in a season four times and going to three Pro Bowls. Joiner holds the NLF record for the most games played at wide receiver.

In addition to good health and longevity, Joiner was an intelligent player and precise pass route runner. Following his playing career, Joiner successfully transitioned into a receiver's coach and (as of 2004) is with the Kansas City Chiefs.