NFL investigating whether Chargers used banned sticky substance during loss to Broncos

SAN DIEGO If coming off consecutive tough losses wasn't bad enough, the San Diego Chargers will return to work Monday with another distraction.

NFL said Sunday it is investigating whether the Chargers used a banned sticky substance during Monday night's loss to the Denver Broncos.

If the league determines the Chargers used the substance, they could be fined or lose a draft pick.

Jay Glazer of FOXSports.com first reported the investigation on Sunday.

NFL spokesman Greg Aiello confirmed the league is "looking into it."

The Chargers issued a statement Sunday that said they are "aware of the inquiry and are cooperating fully with the League."

During Monday night's game, an equipment manager came onto the field with an illegal substance on hand towels, Fox Sports reported. Line judge Jeff Bergman saw the towels and tried to confiscate the substance. When the equipment manager wouldn't give it up, the officials made him empty his pockets and found a skin-colored or clear type of tape, Fox Sports reported.

The Chargers blew a 24-0 halftime lead and lost 35-24, their second straight loss in which they blew a double-digit second-half lead.

It wasn't clear whether the Chargers were on offense or defense when the substance was confiscated.

In 1981, the NFL banned the product Stickum and other sticky substances. Raiders cornerback Lester Hayes was renowned for using the substance before it was banned.

News of the investigation capped one of the most tumultuous weeks in club history. Three days after the embarrassing loss dropped the team to 3-3, club spokesman Bill Johnston infuriated many fans when he posted a column on the team's web site that began by saying, "What's up with you people?" and told fans that it was "Time to take a chill pill."

Fans have been unhappy with coach Norv Turner and general manager A.J. Smith, who were brought back in January despite the Chargers missing the playoffs for the second straight season. San Diego has just one playoff win in four seasons.

The Chargers return from their bye week on Monday. They play at Cleveland on Sunday.