Bradley Bozeman retires: Chargers center calls it a career as Los Angeles heads for offensive line overhaul
CBS Sports
by
Zachary Pereles
February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Los Angeles Chargers center Bradley Bozeman announced his retirement on Instagram, reflecting on the lessons, friendships, and memories he gained over eight seasons in the NFL. Known for his dedication and leadership, Bozeman expressed gratitude to his family, teammates, coaches, and fans while emphasizing how their support made his journey worthwhile. His career included stints with the Baltimore Ravens, Carolina Panthers, and Chargers, where he played a significant role in their offensive line.
Bozeman’s retirement comes as the Chargers face a major overhaul of their struggling offensive line. The unit ranked among the NFL's worst in 2025, particularly in pass blocking and run blocking, according to Pro Football Focus. With Bozeman leaving, left guard Zion Johnson set to hit free agency, and right guard Mekhi Becton underperforming, the Chargers have a pressing need to rebuild their interior line.
The team's offensive struggles heavily impacted quarterback Justin Herbert, who endured a league-high 54 sacks and faced pressure on nearly half of his dropbacks. With new offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel arriving and key players like Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater returning from injuries, the Chargers aim to address these issues in the upcoming offseason. Their $78 million cap space and the No. 22 draft pick position provide a strong foundation for rebuilding.
This situation matters to sports fans as it highlights the challenges teams face in maintaining a competitive offense. The Chargers' ability to strengthen their offensive line will be crucial in Herbert's quest to win his first playoff game, making this overhaul a focal point for NFL enthusiasts and fantasy football players alike.
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/23/2026