San Diego Chargers offensive lineman Jeromey Clary announced his retirement after nine seasons in the NFL.

Clary, 31, was a sixth-round pick by the Chargers in 2006, and started 93 of 103 regular-season games. A right tackle much of his career, Clary moved to guard in 2013. His missed the 2014 season following three hip surgeries over a six-month span.

“San Diego is a great place to play, and I couldn’t have asked for a better organization to play for,” Clary said. “All the coaches and all the players I was with, and the friendships I’ve built … I’m honored to have played for an organization like this. It means the world to me.”

Clary was considered a locker room leader, and earned a $1.6 million base salary in the final year of his contract that was re-worked last July. He opened the season on the Physically Unable to Perform list and it was announced Nov. 18 that he would miss the entire season.

“If you asked what a great teammate looks like, I could just tell ya Jeromey Clary,” said quarterback Philip Rivers. “His toughness, his fight and dependability on and off the field were top notch. I will miss playing with No. 66.”

Clary began his career on San Diego’s practice squad in 2006 before earning a spot on the active roster the following year. He became a starter late in the 2007 season, and went on to miss only nine games between then and 2013. That included returning from an ankle injury to start all 16 games in 2010 and earn the team’s Ed Block Courage Award.

“As an organization we are grateful for everything Jeromey did throughout his entire career here in San Diego,” said Chargers coach Mike McCoy. “Jeromey is a true pro. All he did was show up and work his tail off day in and day out. He is a great example for the younger players. I can’t thank Jeromey enough for the way he helped us lay the foundation for our future here in San Diego during the 2013 season. I wish him and his family all the best in their future endeavors.”