NFL lineman Jeremy Newberry retires

Veteran offensive lineman Jeremy Newberry retired Wednesday after an 11-year career in the National Football League.

The 6-foot-5, 315-pounder, a second-round pick by San Francisco in the 1998 NFL Draft out of California and two-time Pro Bowl selection, played in all 16 games for the San Diego Chargers last season.

His decision follows continuing and chronic knee problems.

His knees just kind of gave out on him, Newberry’s agent, Doug Hendrickson, told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. He could barely walk, and he couldn’t give it a go. He figured it was time.

Newberry, 33, played for the Oakland Raiders in 2007 and started every game in which he appeared from 1999-2007.

He played every offensive line position during his career and has filed retirement papers with the league.

The newspaper said the move leaves the Falcons with one lineman with starting experience, center Brett Romberg, heading the start of training camp on Aug. 1.