The veteran offensive lineman is stepping away from the gridiron after eight seasons in the NFL.
Bradley Bozeman's journey began at Alabama, where a high school ACL injury led to a redshirt freshman year. Facing a challenging relationship with a position coach, Bozeman nearly left football altogether. However, patience paid off as he stayed the course, eventually capturing two national championships with the Crimson Tide and earning the role of team captain in his final season.
Drafted in the sixth round of the 2018 NFL Draft by the Baltimore Ravens, Bozeman spent his first four seasons anchoring their line. In 2022, he signed a one-year deal with the Carolina Panthers, which turned into a three-year, $18 million extension. After being released, Bozeman found a new home with the Chargers, where he played the last two seasons, starting 33 of 34 games and missing just one due to illness.
The 2025 season proved challenging for Bozeman, as he allowed 36 total pressures and three sacks, earning a 51.7 overall grade from Pro Football Focus. His run-blocking and pass-blocking grades also reflected a tough year, ranking at the bottom among eligible centers.
Despite these hurdles, Bozeman's career is a testament to resilience. From nearly leaving the sport in college to achieving 110 NFL starts, his journey was anything but straightforward. His leadership and durability were constants throughout his career, even as his final season presented difficulties.
For the Chargers, Bozeman's retirement opens up nearly $6 million in cap space, boosting their total to around $90 million this offseason. This financial flexibility offers Los Angeles a chance to address the interior line, which was a notable weakness. They can explore free agency, trades, or even the draft to find a long-term solution at center.
Replacing a seasoned veteran like Bozeman is no easy feat, especially at a crucial position like center. However, considering his struggles last season, the Chargers have an opportunity to enhance their line and prepare for the upcoming season with a fresh start.