Chargers center Bradley Bozeman took to Instagram on Monday afternoon to announce his retirement from the NFL after eight seasons.
In the post, Bozeman shared photos of himself in Ravens, Panthers, and Chargers jerseys, highlighting the three teams he played for during his career.
"This game has given me so much -- lessons, lifelong friendships, and memories my family will carry forever," Bozeman said in his post. "I've poured everything I had into this journey, and I walk away grateful and proud."
Bozeman spent two seasons with the Chargers and faced backlash for his on-field performance. The interior of the offensive line has been under scrutiny over the last two seasons under Jim Harbaugh.
After the season, Bozeman told the media he was “proud of this year, I'm proud of myself,” for battling through the season.
Amanda Perobelli/Reuters via Imagn Images
Sep 5, 2025; Sao Paulo, BRAZIL; Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert (10) and center Bradley Bozeman (75) celebrate after the game against the Kansas City Chiefs at Corinthians Arena.
Teammate and Chargers linebacker Daiyan Henley took to X to show support.
"Great man battled every season proud teammate," Henley posted on X. "With all that's goin on in the world I hope we celebrate his retirement for the right reasons. Seeing how critical mental health can be I wish my dog a true happy retirement. congrats on a career that spanned over 8 seasons."
Bozeman was entering the second season of the two-year, $6.5 million contract he signed last year. With his retirement, his $6.935 million cap hit comes off the books, money the team could now utilize elsewhere.
His departure leaves a hole at center for new offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel, even though Bozeman was not considered an ideal fit for McDaniel’s offensive scheme.
Chargers GM Joe Hortiz has the third-most cap space in the NFL and could continue adding to it, especially if other roster moves are made.
There are several free agents the Chargers could pursue. Baltimore’s Tyler Linderbaum would be the premier option, though it is unclear whether the Ravens will let him walk, and there would likely be competition from teams such as the Giants and Raiders. Other potential targets include Buffalo’s Connor McGovern, New Orleans’ Luke Fortner and Carolina’s Cade Mays.
The Chargers could also look to the draft, with Florida’s Jake Slaughter, Auburn’s Connor Lew and Iowa’s Logan Jones as prospects to watch in April.
The interior of the offensive line will be critical moving forward, especially with Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater holding down the tackle spots. Left guard Zion Johnson is set to hit free agency, Bozeman has retired, and releasing right guard Mekhi Becton could save the team $9.65 million. Becton also does not appear to be an ideal scheme fit in McDaniel’s offense, though that is a conversation for another day.
For now, the Chargers will be rolling out a new center this season and who that will be remains one of the more intriguing storylines to follow.
