Chargers' Nick Hardwick announces retirement

As expected, San Diego Chargers center Nick Hardwick officially announced his retirement from the NFL on Tuesday.

Hardwick spent his entire 11-year career with the Chargers after being selected in the third round of the 2004 draft, starting all 136 games in which he appeared and earning a trip to the Pro Bowl in 2006.

"To the city, the fans, Chargers nation, thank you. It's been the absolute pleasure of my life," Hardwick said.

Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers, who joined the team with Hardwick as part of the same 2004 draft class, spoke highly of his long-time teammate both on and off the field.