The Chargers have parted ways with a former first-round pick, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN.com, who reports (via Twitter) that edge defender Larry English has been released by the club. Because he has more than four years of NFL experience, English will not be subject to waivers, making him a free agent immediately.
English, who was drafted with the 16th overall pick in 2009, appeared in 52 games for the Chargers during his five years with the team, struggling with injuries in recent years and never establishing himself as a consistent performer. He started five of nine games for San Diego in 2013, recording 2.5 sacks, before a pectoral injury sidelined him for the season.
With Dwight Freeney starting at one outside linebacker spot, a healthy Melvin Ingram ready to reclaim his position on the other side, and players like Jarret Johnson and second-round pick Jeremiah Attaochu also in the mix, there wasn’t a clear-cut role for English in San Diego heading into the 2014 season.
The Chargers also confirmed today (via Twitter) that center Khalil Wilkes has signed a three-year pact with the team. However, there should still be an opening on the club’s 90-man roster, since Nick McDonald was cut yesterday as well.