Aaron Wilson of the National Football Post reports that San Diego Chargers offensive tackle Tra Thomas is leaning towards retirement.

Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune says it's official: Thomas is retiring.

The Chargers signed the 35-year old Thomas as insurance against a lengthy holdout by restricted free agent Marcus McNeill. Thomas returned to practice this week after undergoing arthroscopic knee surgery earlier this month.

A former first-round pick (11th overall) of the Philadelphia Eagles out of Florida State in 1998, Thomas started 165 of 166 for the Eagles, earning trips to the Pro Bowl after the 2001, 2002, and 2004 seasons.

Thomas started three of his eight games for the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2009.