The Chargers have released linebacker Larry English.
The 2009 first-round pick battled injury during his time in San Diego, ending three of the past four seasons on injured reserve. Off the field, he was active in the community, forming the L.E.A.D. Foundation and holding an annual football camp to assist at-risk youth in the area.
English said he was informed of the decision Tuesday morning.
"Obviously, it's unfortunate," English said. "This has become like family to me, being a part of this organization and being in this city. I'm grateful for the opportunity. I just wish them all the best and am look forward to where my new home will be and starting something new there."
Outside linebacker is among the deepest positions on the Chargers roster.
Melvin Ingram, Jarrett Johnson, Dwight Freeney and second-round pick Jerry Attaochu top the depth chart. That the team felt comfortable cutting English likely speaks to the health of Freeney, who tore a quad tendon last September.
There is a silver lining for English.
A release in July, with most training camps about to begin, gives the 28-year-old a better chance to catch on elsewhere than had be released after the preseason games in August.
Over five years, English appeared in 52 games with nine starts. He totaled 80 tackles and 11 sacks. For years, he battled foot woes and also tore his pectoral last season when sacking Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning at Qualcomm Stadium.
That was his final snap as a Charger.
English said he looks back on his time in San Diego as a "blessing."
"There always is adversity," he said. "There are some things you have to deal with in life. It's about how you bounce back from them. That's what makes you the person you are. I look at my time in San Diego, and I'm grateful for the opportunity. It built me as a person. It made me stronger. I got to meet some great people there along the way."
Guard Jeromey Clary, 2006, and safety Eric Weddle, 2007, are the only remaining Chargers from the 2005-2009 draft classes.
Players report to training camp Wednesday. Their first practice is Thursday morning.
http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2014/jul/...glish-nfl/
his final play as a charger:
![[Image: linebacker_r620x349.jpg?75d51d0aea2efce5...bc530c46a8]](http://media.utsandiego.com/img/photos/2013/11/10/linebacker_r620x349.jpg?75d51d0aea2efce5189afce216053cbc530c46a8)
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Larry English let go by SD Chargers
