The Chargers made a trade with the Vikings to help pare down their roster and add to their picks in the 2016 draft.
The team announced that they have traded offensive lineman Jeremiah Sirles to Minnesota in exchange for a sixth-round pick in next year’s draft. Sirles played in two games for the Chargers last year and saw action at every offensive line spot other than left tackle in the preseason.
Kicker Nick Novak’s previously reported departure was the biggest news to come out of the Chargers’ cut to 53 players. They also released tight end John Phillips, leaving Lardarius Green, David Johnson and Kyle Miller as options while Antonio Gates serves his suspension.
The Chargers cuts also include wide receiver Austin Pettis, linebacker Chi Chi Ariguzo, cornerback Richard Crawford, cornerback Greg Ducre, wide receiver Javontee Herndon, guard Michael Huey, safety Johnny Lowdermilk, cornerback Jordan Mabin, linebacker Ryan Mueller, tight end Brian Parker, safety Adrian Phillips, cornerback Lowell Rose, running back Dreamius Smith, quarterback Brad Sorensen, defensive tackle Damion Square, linebacker Colton Underwood and guard Kenny Wiggins. Guard Craig Watts joins Gates on the suspended list to start the season.