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SAN DIEGO — Chris Chambers recently reflected back 12 months and couldn't suppress a laugh.

The San Diego Chargers receiver was talking about playing for a Super Bowl contender and recalling how a year ago he was employed by a team representing the other side of the spectrum.

Back then he was playing for the lowly Miami Dolphins and he wasn't exactly envisioning a memorable season.

"Win a game," said Chambers, expressing amusement as he reminisced. "Just win one game."

The Dolphins did win one game last season and that came well after Chambers received a welcome reprieve by being traded to the Chargers in mid-October.

Now Chambers returns to Miami for the first time as an opposing player when the Chargers (2-2) meet the Dolphins (1-2) on Sunday.

"I'm very excited," Chambers said this week. "And I know it's going to be a little emotional for one second. But once we start playing, it's going to be back to just playing football."

Chambers has only eight receptions through four games, but four have been for touchdowns. He's averaging an impressive 24.5 yards per catch.

The Chargers cited Chambers' acquisition as one of the keys to a run to last season's AFC championship game. The rare midseason trade not only rescued Chambers from a dire situation but also removed pressure from receiver Vincent Jackson and helped the Chargers' offense become much more potent.

When the chance to get Chambers arose, general manager A.J. Smith immediately sought out coach Norv Turner for input. Turner had been offensive coordinator in Miami for two seasons (2002-03) early in Chambers' career.

Smith quizzed Turner about Chambers.

The sudden switch didn't come without challenges for Chambers. He had to adjust to living in a new area, a new quarterback and he was aware that his presence would lead to a reduced role for some Chargers receivers.

So he chose to tread lightly the first few weeks in hopes of earning the respect of his new teammates by his actions.

"I'm not the most outspoken person in the world," said Chambers, who has 448 career receptions and 51 touchdowns. "It takes a lot for me to open up to people, especially when I've been in the same situation for seven years and been around the same people.

"I had to get used to the guys and how they respond to me and what they do in the locker room, and some of the off-the-field stuff before I could go on the field and be able to produce."

Chambers always produced in Miami. He finished his Dolphins' stint ranked fifth in team history in receptions with 405 and fourth in receiving yardage (5,688) and touchdown receptions (43). He holds the team record for receptions in a game with 15.

He's counting on a good reception from Miami fans and would like to punctuate the trip by catching a touchdown pass or two.

"It would be outstanding," Chambers said. "That definitely is my goal — to get in the end zone and have a little fun. Hopefully, I can get in there. I'm looking forward to playing these guys."

Chambers faces Dolphins for first time since trade