Bernstine, Chargers Agree to a One-Year Contract

SAN DIEGO — Running back Rod Bernstine, who has not always felt wanted by the Chargers, no longer has such doubts.

Bernstine was happy to report Monday that he has reached a one-year contract agreement for an estimated $450,000 with the Chargers, thereby avoiding the possibility and probability of a training-camp holdout.

“Bobby Beathard went out of his way to get the thing done early,” Bernstine said, “and he could have waited until the first day of camp to begin negotiations.

“Coach (Dan) Henning has showed a lot of faith in me, and I think this shows that Bobby is starting to have some faith in me, too. Now it’s up to me to stay on the field. I think I have shown that when I’m healthy, there’s nobody who plays any better.”

Bernstine, who came to the Chargers as a tight end and first-round draft pick from Texas A&M; in 1987, made the full-time switch to running back last season and gained 589 yards as Marion Butts’ backup on 124 rushes.

Beathard still must come to terms with five other veteran free agents, but Bernstine’s negotiations were expected to draw the most interest and be the toughest.

The Chargers had questioned Bernstine’s toughness and on several occasions had talked about trading him. They also had difficulty previously with his agent, Ralph Cindrich, who represented holdout running back Gary Anderson.

“It went well from the beginning,” Beathard said. “I think Rod wondered if we were serious in wanting him. And I assured him we did want him here.”

Cindrich said the Chargers have recognized Bernstine as “a first-class talent.”

“Bernie’s role is different than most players,” Cindrich said. “It’s like a key backup quarterback . . . You don’t need that guy all that often, but when you do, he can play for you and make it happen. I think the Chargers like Bernie and want him around.”