Hall of Fame

Charlie Joiner

  • Class
  • Induction
    1996
  • Sport(s)
    Football
  • Grambling State
Early Life & College
  • Joiner was born on October 14, 1947, in Many, Louisiana.
  • He attended W.O. Boston High School in Lake Charles, Louisiana.
  • He accepted a scholarship to Grambling (Grambling State University) to play under legendary coach Eddie Robinson.
  • At Grambling from about 1965 to 1968:
    • He was a four-year letterman.
    • He was a three-time first-team All-SWAC selection (1966-68).
    • Over the 1966-68 period he amassed around 2,066 receiving yards as a Grambling receiver.
    • His college QB was Jim (James) Harris, and the team had strong passing attacks.
  • Coach Robinson reportedly said of him: “Beating the man, that’s where he excelled.”
  • Joiner graduated with a degree in accountancy in 1969 from Grambling.
Professional Playing Career
  • Joiner was drafted in the 4th round of the 1969 AFL/NFL Draft (93rd overall) by the Houston Oilers.
  • Although drafted as a defensive back, he ended up making his mark as a wide receiver.
  • His pro career spanned 18 seasons (1969–1986) and included:
    • Houston Oilers (1969-72)
    • Cincinnati Bengals (1972-75)
    • San Diego Chargers (1976-86)
  • Career stats:
    • 750 receptions.
    • 12,146 receiving yards.
    • 65 receiving touchdowns.
    • Averaged 16.2 yards per catch over his career.
  • At the time of his retirement, he held NFL records for receptions and was among the leaders in receiving yards and games played by a wide receiver.
  • Highlights & Awards:
    • 3× Pro Bowl (1976, 1979, 1980)
    • First-team All-Pro in 1980.
    • With the Chargers he was part of the famed “Air Coryell” offense, playing alongside QB Dan Fouts and TE Kellen Winslow and other star receivers.