Chargers starting center Bradley Bozeman announces retirement

Offensive lineman Bradley Bozeman, who started 16 games for the Chargers this past season, is retiring.

The 31-year-old announced the surprising move on his Instagram page on Monday, calling it a career after eight seasons in the NFL.

Bradley Bozeman, the Chargers’ starting center the past two seasons, is retiring. Getty Images

“I’m ready for my next chapter,” he wrote in a caption on a carousel of pictures of him during his time in the league. “This game has given me so much — lessons, lifelong friendships, and memories my family will carry forever. I’ve poured everything I had into this journey, and I walk away grateful and proud.”

Bozeman went on to thank his former teammates, his coaches and fans — before he turned his attention toward his family.

“Thank you to my amazing family who supported me every step of this journey,” he wrote, “to my three amazing kids — Brody, Bailey, and Boone — who made every sacrifice worth it, and especially to my unbelievable wife, my ride or die from the very beginning. I couldn’t have done any of this without you!

“Someone once told me, ‘Every career — no matter how decorated — ends in a trash bag.’ The game moves on. Someone fills your spot.

“I’m just thankful God gave me the chance to take the ride.

Bradley Bozeman helped block for Justin Herbert the past two seasons in Los Angeles. Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

“On to the next chapter of life at the farm!”

Bozeman, an Alabama alum, broke into the league with the Ravens in 2018 after they selected him in the sixth round of the ’18 NFL Draft.

He played in Baltimore for four seasons, starting 49 games. He then logged snaps in 34 games for the Panthers from 2022 through 2023, before he signed as a free agent with the Chargers in 2024.

Over the last two seasons in Los Angeles, he manned the center position for 33 total games.