via ProFootballTalk

The San Diego Chargers have released veteran linebacker Matt Wilhelm.

The team announced the move earlier this afternoon.

The six-year veteran, a third-round pick in 2003, started 14 games in 2007.  Last year, he appeared in every game and started the first five of the season before being pulled from the starting lineup.  He started two games later in the year.

Per NFLPA records, WIlhelm was due to earn a base salary of $2 million in 2009, $2.5 million in 2010, and $3 million in 2011.

Wilhelm is now an unrestricted agent.  Since the team knew that Wilhelm was not going to make it through training camp, they did the right thing in cutting him now.  I'm sure he'll catch on with another team with a more reasonable contract and the fans will love him for his effort.