Nick Hardwick will retire today after playing 11 seasons with the San Diego Chargers. Hardwick was drafted in the third round in 2004. He started every game he played for the Chargers. He spent his first two season in the league snapping the ball to fellow Boiler Drew Brees. In 2006 Nick made his only Pro Bowl, despite being widely regarded as one of the better centers in the league.
Hardwick had previously announced that this past season would be his last but it ended prematurely after suffering a stinger in the first game of the season. Hardwick has had previous problems with nerve issues.
Since being placed on the IR Hardwick has lost almost 100 pounds, drastically trimming down his line man figure.
Best of luck to Hardwick as he moves on from the NFL.