The Chargers signed veteran S Bob Sanders on Thursday night. The Colts cut the injury-plagued Sanders on Feb. 18.

Sanders, the 2007 Defensive Player of the Year, has played in just nine games over the last three seasons. He suffered a biceps injury in 2010, keeping him out of every game but the opener.

"We are all very excited to add Bob Sanders to our defense," said Chargers GM A.J. Smith. "We have always held him in high regard. He's a smart, physical, instinctive player. His intensity and playmaking ability can make an immediate impact on our defense."

"There's no question I'm excited. The fact that Bob was available and excited about being here and then having it work out is great," said head coach Norv Turner. "Our guys have unbelievable respect for him and what he's done through the years. Certainly he knows what we're capable of doing, so it's a great fit."

Sanders, 30, has six career interceptions.

The way we see it

The Chargers boasted the league's top passing defense and overall defense but lost defensive coordinator Ron Rivera to the Panthers. They are taking a chance with Sanders, who has never played a full 16-game season, but if he could stay healthy, he definitely could help San Diego's secondary.