Veteran center Corey Linsley set to retire following release from Chargers

A former All-Pro center is retiring.

The Los Angeles Chargers have released center Corey Linsley, who is expected to retire after 10 NFL seasons, the team announced on Wednesday.

“Corey embodies all the attributes one would wish for in an NFL player and exceeds them,” stated Chargers president John Spanos. “He is the epitome of professionalism, guiding younger players, demonstrating an unparalleled work ethic, maintaining integrity, displaying leadership, possessing a competitive spirit, and carrying a sense of humor. These qualities have led to his recognition as a captain throughout his entire tenure with us. Beyond his impressive football skills, Corey excels even more as an individual.”

While expanding their family from two to four children during his tenure with the Chargers, Corey and his wife, Anna, remained committed to serving their community. They were fervent supporters of CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates). This dedication led to Corey receiving two nominations for the Walter Payton Man of the Year award during his career.

Though Corey may have taken his final snap in the NFL, his narrative is far from over. We eagerly anticipate the unfolding of the Linsleys’ next chapter and extend our best wishes to Corey, Anna, Seamus, Killian, Quinn, and Ruth as they move forward.

Linsley leaves with a record of playing 144 career games, all as a starter, with two All-Pro selections and a Pro Bowl recognition, the latter of which he earned during his first season in Los Angeles.

A four-star recruit from Boardman High School (Ohio), Linsley entered the NFL as a fifth-round pick out of Ohio State and ascended into prominence in Green Bay, filling in for JC Tretter in his first few seasons before officially replacing him in 2017. Linsley started every game for the Packers from 2017-19 and earned a first-team All-Pro selection in 2020. He cashed in on the honor almost instantly, signing a five-year, $62.5 million deal with the Chargers in 2021.

Unfortunately, health became a hindrance for Linsley over his first two seasons with the Bolts, as he battled injuries while still managing to appear in 30 games. A heart-related issue ended his 2023 season at the end of September, preceding his June retirement.