Tight end Hunter Henry will be a free agent when the new league year begins next week.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Chargers have informed Henry that they will not place the franchise tag on him.
Using the tag on Henry for the second straight year would have costed Los Angeles $12.7 million guaranteed. Instead, he is expected to receive a contract in line with the other top players at his position group.
The 26-year-old has amassed 1,265 yards and nine touchdowns in 26 games over the last two seasons.
Coming off one of his best seasons yet with quarterback Justin Herbert distributing the wealth, Los Angeles’ priority should now be to re-sign Henry to a long-term deal.