Chargers sign Jon Runyan, place Clary on injured reserve

Jeromey Clary will spend the rest of the season on injured reserve after injuring his ankle against the Broncos. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey)

Confirming speculation that they were in talks with free agent tackle Jon Runyan, the Chargers announced late Tuesday that they have signed the former Pro Bowler to fill the void left by injured right tackle Jeromey Clary.

Clary suffered ligament damage to his left ankle during Sunday’s victory over the Denver Broncos and will miss the remainder of the season.

Runyan, a 2002 Pro Bowler,  is a 13-year veteran with a reputation as a sometimes dirty but highly effective and intimidating player. He underwent microfracture surgery on his right knee after the 2008 season and was a free agent after spending nine years with the Eagles.

“We are very fortunate that a player of Jon’s experience and ability was available at this time,” said Chargers General Manager A.J. Smith. “He is an outstanding competitor, and I have always admired the physical, nasty approach he brings to the field every game. He will be added to the mix and we will move forward.”

Originally a fourth-round pick by the Houston Oilers in 1996, Runyan started every game at right tackle with the Eagles from 2000-2008. From 1997 to 2008, he started 213 consecutive games. He turns 36 on Friday.

Rookie Brandyn Dombrowski had been expected to start in Clary’s place.

Jason Owens is the SDNN sports editor. email: jason.owens(at)sdnn.com

Tags: broncos, Chargers, Eagles, Jeromey Clary, Jon Runyan, SDNN, SWRNN

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