The San Diego Chargers released kicker Nick Novak Saturday as they trimmed their roster down to its final number of 53.
Rookie Josh Lambo, 24, will take over kicking duties after going 4-for-4 during the preseason, including three field-goals longer than 40 yards and one over 50.
Novak joined the Chargers in 2011 and made 74 of 83 attempted field-goal over that span. He set a franchise record last year when he made 30 straight field-goals.
Unlike Novak, Lambo possesses the ability to kick touchbacks on kickoffs, something Novak was unable to do after Week 8 last season and had struggled with his whole career.
Along with Novak, the Chargers cut several other players in order to trim their roster down to 53.
Here’s a breakdown of who the team let go:
Waived
LB Chi Chi Ariguzo (injured)
CB Richard Crawford
CB Greg Ducre
WR Javontee Herndon
G Michael Huey
S Johnny Lowdermilk
CB Jordan Mabin
LB Ryan Mueller
TE Brian Parker
S Adrian Phillips
CB Lowell Rose
RB Dreamius Smith
QB Brad Sorensen
DT Damion Square
LB Colton Underwood (injured)
G Kenny Wiggins
Released:
K Nick Novak
WR Austin Pettis
TE John Phillips
The team also announced that it traded guard Jeremiah Sirles to the Minnesota Vikings for a sixth-round pick in the 2016 Draft.
The Chargers open up their season next Sunday against the Detroit Lions at Qualacomm Stadium at 1:05 p.m.
