4 teams declined to sign Jon Runyan for the 2009 season as he had microfracture surgery on his knee after last season in February.  Even though Runyan was gearing up for a possible Congressional campaign, he kept himself in shape for an opportunity just like this.

“The 35-year-old free-agent offensive tackle, who had microfracture surgery on his right knee in February, was cleared for full contact Monday by Dr. James Andrews, the Birmingham, Ala., orthopedist who operated on him. “I can play,” Runyan said. Asked yesterday whether the Eagles had any interest in re-signing Runyan, an Eagles executive told the Daily News, “I wouldn’t rule it out, but right now, it’s unlikely.” Runyan said he is willing to wait for the right offer. “It has to be right,” he said. “Ultimately, the game is about making a bunch of money. If it’s not there now, at some point in the first couple months of the season I’m pretty sure it’s going to be there. It’s just a matter of mentally preparing yourself for that and keeping yourself ready to go.” Runyan and his family live in Mount Laurel, N.J., but he said he will play wherever the best opportunity – and offer – presents itself.”

 

Well, if you’re healthy Jon, I welcome you to San Diego and hope you can help our oft injured O-Line.  Here is Jon’s official statement, courtesy of Hugging Harold Reynolds.

Below is the official statement of Jon Runyan regarding his decision to sign with the San Diego Chargers for the remainder of the NFL season and its impact on his plans to seek the Republican nomination for the US House of Representatives in NJ’s 3rd Congressional District:

“Yesterday, I received an offer to pursue my professional dream of winning a Super Bowl, and have decided to sign with the San Diego Chargers for the remainder of this season through the playoffs. Win or lose, these will be my final games as an NFL player. Last night, I personally informed the Republican County Chairmen in NJ’s 3rd Congressional District that after the season is over I plan to officially retire from football and pursue a campaign for the United States Congress. I want to thank all of the people who have been encouraging me to run next year and let them know that I look forward to a successful end to my career on the field, and a spirited campaign against Congressman Adler in 2010.”