Chargers Release Castillo

Fan Favorite Becomes Odd Man Out On Defensive Line

In April, the Chargers signed defensive end Luis Castillo to a 1-year, $1 million contract.

On Thursday, the Chargers released Castillo.

Castillo was drafted by the Chargers in the first round of the 2005 NFL Draft. He played in all 16 games and was named to the NFL All-Rookie Team.

In 2006, Castillo was having a fantastic season before a leg injury derailed it. Luis played in 10 games and had 7.0 sacks. Unfortunately for the charismatic Castillo, it was not the last time he would be slowed down by injury.

Luis missed nine games over the next three seasons. In 2010 he played in every game but didn't have the same impact he'd had pre-injury.

In the 2011 season opener against Minnesota, Castillo suffered a broken leg on a play that was ultimately negated by a penalty. He didn't get on the field again.

Castillo has earned a reputation as one of the NFL's hardest workers, perhaps part of the reason the Bolts decided to give him another shot in 2012.

However, with a crowded defensive line (Antonio Garay, Jacques Cesaire, Corey Liuget, Vaughn Martin, Cam Thomas and 2nd round pick Kendall Reyes) Luis may have had trouble finding playing time.

Before re-signing with the Chargers, Castillo took visits to other NFL teams (including the Chiefs and Patriots). It's possible he could sign elsewhere before training camps begin next week.

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