After initially indicating that they would allow Darren Sproles to test the free agent market, the San Diego Chargers went in the opposite direction Thursday and placed a first-and-third tender on their speedy running back / kick returner.
Chargers Place Highest Tender On RB Sproles, Release DT Jamal Williams
The move guarantees Sproles a salary of $7.27 million if he stays with the Chargers, unless the club can sign him to a long-term deal. He made $6.62 million last season as the Chargers’ franchise player and is entitled to a 10 percent raise.
The Chargers also decided to release 12-year San Diego veteran DT Jamal Williams.
Sources also said Williams, a Pro Bowl nose tackle who had been with the Chargers for 12 seasons, would be released. Williams, who will be 34 next month, would have been owed a $1 million roster bonus and was scheduled to earn $5 million in 2010. He played in only one game last season due to a triceps injury suffered in the season opener.
It’s unclear if Sproles will be given the chance to start, as the Chargers have been actively shopping for a running back to replace LaDainian Tomlinson. But given the amount of money that San Diego will be paying Sproles to stay, it would only make sense to give him a chance.
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