After seven memorable seasons as an inspirational leader on the team, the Los Angeles Chargers announced on Friday they released Darrell Stuckey with a failed physical designation.
"For the past seven years, Darrell has been a difference maker for our franchise both on and off the field," said General Manager Tom Telesco. "He followed up a Pro Bowl season in 2014 by being named the Chargers Walter Payton Man of the Year in 2015. You couldn't ask for a better person to represent the organization than Darrell, and we want to sincerely thank him not only for what he has meant to the Chargers, but for what he has meant to the community as a whole. Darrell, his wife Lacie, and his children will always be part of the Chargers family, and we wish them all the best now and in the future."
Stuckey represented what it means to be a Charger on and off the field from the moment he was selected in the fourth round of the 2010 NFL Draft. A five-time team captain, three-time Special Teams Player of the Year and a Pro Bowler in 2015, he totaled 94 tackles and four fumble recoveries in 89 career games.
Yet it was his devotion off the field as much as his contributions between the lines that made him a truly special player. Stuckey was a permanent fixture at community events, committed to make a civic difference in the world. In fact, he even donated one of his game checks to help fight human trafficking.
Stuckey was named the team's 2015 Walter Payton Man of the Year for his efforts, and he's left a mark on the franchise that will long be remembered.
