Center Nick Hardwick has played his entire career with the San Diego Chargers – a career which began in 2004. However, it may be coming to an end.
Hardwick, who was diagnosed with a concussion during San Diego’s Wild Card victory over the Cincinnati Bengals recently admitted that the thought of retirement has crossed his mind and he plans to use the next few weeks to reflect on an upcoming decision.
"Ten wins, eight losses, the daily grind with teammates — Hardwick appreciated it all. In the coming weeks, he plans not to rush what he called a “time of quiet and reflection (to) see where we’re headed.”"
Like many players on the NFL’s wrong side of 30, Hardwick has a family and doesn’t want to jeopardize that future to play an extra few seasons in the NFL. It’s an understandable stance and one that is getting more and more play from players facing a similar scenario as Hardwick.
If he does come back, the veteran center has one year remaining on a three year contract.