The veteran offensive lineman has decided to retire after eight seasons in the NFL, closing a chapter on a career marked by resilience and determination.
Bradley Bozeman's journey began at Alabama, where he redshirted his freshman year due to a high school ACL injury. Facing a strained relationship with a position coach, Bozeman nearly left football altogether. However, he chose to persevere, a decision that led him to two national championships with the Crimson Tide and a role as team captain in his final season.
Drafted in the sixth round of the 2018 NFL Draft by the Baltimore Ravens, Bozeman spent four seasons honing his skills there. In 2022, he signed with the Carolina Panthers on a one-year deal and later secured a three-year, $18 million extension. After being released, he joined the Chargers, where he played the last two seasons of his career, starting 33 out of 34 possible games, missing only one due to illness.
Bozeman's final season in 2025 was challenging, as he allowed 36 total pressures and three sacks, earning a 51.7 overall grade from Pro Football Focus-ranking him last among eligible centers. His run-blocking and pass-blocking grades also reflected a tough year.
Despite these struggles, Bozeman's career is a testament to perseverance. From nearly stepping away in college to achieving 110 NFL starts, his journey was anything but straightforward. His durability and leadership were key strengths throughout his time in the league.
For the Chargers, Bozeman’s retirement opens up nearly $6 million in cap space, bringing their total to around $90 million this offseason. This financial flexibility allows the team to explore free agency or the trade market to strengthen their offensive line-a crucial need given last season's struggles. A draft pick could also be part of a long-term solution.
Replacing a veteran like Bozeman is never easy, especially at the center position, which is vital for communication on the line. Yet, given his recent challenges, the Chargers have an opportunity to upgrade and reset their interior line as they head into the offseason.