In addition to their signing of defensive tackle Aubrayo Franklin, the San Diego Chargers announced that they have agreed on a one-year contract with running back Jackie Battle and released guard Kris Dielman from the "reserve/retired" list.
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Battle, 28, has spent the last five seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs, totaling 715 yards and four touchdowns on the ground and 14 receptions for 76 yards as a receiver out of the backfield. Battle started four of 15 games in 2011, establishing career highs with 597 yards and two touchdowns. According to a source with knowledge of the situation, Battle paid a free agent visit to the Chargers on March 21 but was not signed.
With Ryan Mathews expected to carry a heavier load in the Chargers' backfield, Battle will compete with Ronnie Brown for the No. 2 job this summer.
Dielman finished the 2011 season on injured reserve after suffering a concussion during an October loss to the New York Jets. On the return flight to San Diego, Dielman reportedly suffered a seizure and he announced his retirement in February.
Being released from the "reserve/retired" list means that Dielman becomes a free agent who is free to sign with any team should he decide to continue his career. Kevin Acee of U-T San Diego reports that Dielman will not return to the playing field.
The Chargers also announced they released rookie free agent fullback Mohamed Marah.