Chargers releasing LB Kendricks

The Los Angeles Chargers are releasing veteran linebacker Eric Kendricks, the team announced Tuesday.

The 32-year-old Kendricks started 14 of the 15 games he played in during his lone season with the Chargers. He was named a team captain and recorded 117 tackles, seven tackles for loss, six passes defended, and 3.5 sacks in 2023.

The Chargers will free up $6.5 million in cap space by moving on from Kendricks, according to The Athletic's Daniel Popper. The former Pro Bowl defender signed a two-year, $13.25-million contract with L.A. as a free agent last March.

The team currently exceeds the salary cap by $19.1 million, according to Over the Cap.

Kendricks previously spent eight seasons as a member of the Minnesota Vikings. He was named a first-team All-Pro in 2019.

Los Angeles could be looking to replace both of its starting inside linebackers this offseason, as Kenneth Murray is set to be an unrestricted free agent at the start of the new league year on March 13.

The Chargers opted not to place the franchise tag on any of their pending free agents ahead of Tuesday's deadline. Running back Austin Ekeler and tight end Gerald Everett are poised to explore the free-agent market alongside Murray later this month.

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