San Diego Chargers rumors: Larry English released
By Bryan Rose
When the San Diego Chargers selected Larry English with the 16th overall pick in the 2009 NFL Draft, pundits and fans were both shocked at the move. But the Chargers front office was quick to calm any frustrations and hinted he could be the next great name on defense.
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Now he’ll be the next average name in free agency as the San Diego Chargers released the veteran linebacker on Tuesday afternoon.
A three-time All-MAC player and two-time MAC Most Valuable Player award winner, Larry English was a beast at the college level but struggled during his transition to the NFL. Things weren’t made any easier for the Illinois native who dealt with a multitude of injuries during his five-year career with the San Diego Chargers who understandably became frustrated with his sub-par play and nagging issues.
Playing defensive end in college, the Chargers felt English would be better served as an outside linebacker and that seemed like a solid move during his rookie season where he put up 26 tackles in limited time. However, that was his most productive season as he has not accumulated more than 12 tackles in a season since.
Thought to be a gifted pass rusher, Larry English also struggled getting to the quarterback as the former NIU star amassed only 11 sacks in 52 career games.
It’s just one of another early draft pick blunders from the Chargers late 2000’s front office. Thankfully the current San Diego front office seems much more stable and has the organization on the correct path.