Nick Hardwick Steps Down as Chargers Color Analyst

Nick Hardwick has decided to not return as the Los Angeles Chargers color analyst next season. He worked with Matt “Money” Smith in the team’s first season in the radio booth.

On the team website, Hardwick explained his decision to leave the booth after three seasons.

The thing I value most in life is my family, and I believe that the time devoted to a subject should be in alignment with one’s values. Simply, I am no longer able to miss out on as many weekends with my family as the football season requires.

In total, Hardwick has been with Chargers as a player or broadcaster for 15 seasons. This is a big life change for a man who has been heavily involved in the Bolts community.

Immediately after the Chargers moved from Los Angeles, Hardwick shunned the organization. Stating his displeasure in the team’s controversial decision to skip town.

Six months later he accepted the role as color analyst for the Chargers radio broadcasts. With his job at San Diego radio station XTRA 1360, he and his wife’s ownership of a San Diego gym and a growing family, Hardwick couldn't commit to the move to Hollywood.

Despite the backlash he may have received for working for the team after trying to distance himself, Hardwick has kept his finger on the pulse of the franchise for a long time. His opinion has weight.

The Chargers suddenly have a new vacancy in the booth. Will the team play it safe with a former San Diego great? Ladainian Tomlinson has worked closely with ownership after the move, could he want to try his hand as a color commentator?

There will be plenty of options in the massive L.A. market. Who would you like to see take over?