Chargers release starting safety Jahleel Addae

Aug 18, 2018; Carson, CA, USA; Los Angeles Chargers defensive back Jahleel Addae (37) looks on against the Seattle Seahawks at StubHub Center. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports

The Los Angeles Chargers released safety Jahleel Addae, who had started 59 games over the past six seasons.

Coach Anthony Lynn said in a statement that Addae’s release was tough but had to be made because of salary cap reasons. Addae’s release saves $5 million against the cap with free agency set to begin Wednesday.

Addae started all 16 regular-season games last season and finished fourth on the team with 72 tackles along with one interception and a sack. He moved to free safety last year after the Chargers drafted Derwin James in the first round.