We’ve already written this month about how the Chargers are going to have to rebuild their offensive line this offseason.
And that was before we knew center Nick Hardwick may retire at the age of 30. Hardwick is reasonably healthy, but he’s thinking of walking away from the game.
“I love football,” Hardwick told Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune this week. “It’s a hard decision. There is a lot that goes into it. It’s heavy. So I’m not willing to think about it right now.”
Hardwick is set to be a free agent and would do well on the market as a quality starter that still has good years left. He’s third among active Chargers in games started.
“You see the older guys, the alumni who have long term issues, and it makes you think. It’s not scary; it’s just part of weighing the decision,” Hardwick said.
Guard Kris Dielman is also considering retirement because of his concussion issues. Left tackle Marcus McNeill wants to keep playing, but he has spine/back issues.
The first job for the next Chargers coach may be finding an offensive line.