Three veterans were released from the Los Angeles Chargers to create $19 million in salary cap space for the upcoming free agency period.
The Chargers announced that they released veteran lineman D.J. Fluker, corner Brandon Flowers and Steve Johnson. The moves save them over $19 million against their salary cap, according to ESPN.com
In Tuesday’s statement, Chargers general manager Tom Telesco said releasing players that he knows and respects is the toughest part of his job.
Fluker, 25, started 28 games at guard for the Chargers over the past two seasons. He was drafted as a tackle with the No. 11 pick in 2013.
Telesco complimented Fluker’s effort and passion via the statement. Fans also thanked Fluker on social media after he thanked them via a heartfelt post:
The only thing constant is change. God blessed me with the opportunity to play the game I love… https://t.co/VDaHT0UsPs
— DJ FlukerThe Warrior (@djthewarrior76) March 7, 2017
Otherwise, Los Angeles saves $8.82 million by releasing Fluker in the final year of his rookie deal.
Telesco also complimented Flowers’ professionalism during his time with the Chargers. Flowers, 31, appeared in only six games and registered one interception last season, due to injury. The Chargers save $7 million against the cap by releasing him.
Johnson, 30, also missed extensive time because of injury. A torn meniscus prevented him from appearing in a game last season, despite having 45 receptions for 497 yards and three touchdowns in 2015. L.A. saves $3.5 million in cap space by releasing him.
Telesco wished the veterans luck on their careers via the statement.
Nonetheless, the Chargers’ announcement came on the same day that NFL Free Agency negotiations opened.
Los Angeles has about $23 million in cap space after the moves, according to Over The Cap.