The Chargers will continue to move away from the A.J. Smith/Norv Turner regime by parting ways with one of the most tenured linebackers in the NFL.
Takeo Spikes, a 15-year veteran, will be released today, per a league source with knowledge of the situation.
Spikes, we’re told, plans to play in 2013. He entered the league in 1998 with the Bengals. After five seasons in Cincinnati, he spent four with the Bills, one with the Eagles, three with the 49ers, and the last two in San Diego.
Given that Smith is now working for the Redskins and Spikes likely will be available for the 10-plus-year veteran minimum of $940,000, Washington could make a play for him — especially if London Fletcher doesn’t return.
Or, more accurately, if the cap-strapped Redskins decide not to bring back Fletcher and his $5.5 million base salary.
Spikes was due to earn a base salary of $3 million in 2013.
UPDATE 9:31 a.m. ET: The Chargers have announced the move. “Takeo is a true professional and a class act,” G.M. Tom Telesco said. “We’re grateful for his many contributions to the Chargers organization, both on and off the field, and wish him nothing but the best in the future.”