Chargers lineman Gary ‘Big Hands’ Johnson dies at 57

This article was originally on a blog post platform and may be missing photos, graphics or links. See About archive blog posts.

Gary “Big Hands” Johnson, a standout defensive lineman for the San Diego Chargers, has died. He was 57.

Johnson had suffered a stroke about two weeks ago. Johnson’s son, Gary Jr., confirmed his father’s death Wednesday at the Louisiana State University hospital in Shreveport, La., said team spokesman Bill Johnston.

Johnson, the eighth pick overall in the 1975 draft, played 10 seasons for the Chargers. He was a two-time All-Pro and a four-time Pro Bowl selection.

He was traded to San Francisco during the 1984 season, when the 49ers went on to win the Super Bowl.

Johnson, who played at Louisiana’s Grambling State University, was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1997.

-- Associated Press