Mruczkowski signs new three-year deal

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Wednesday, Feb 27, 2008
By Casey Pearce, Chargers.com

Scott Mruczkowski’s story is like so many other Chargers who have faced the prospects of free agency in recent years.

“After being around guys like Nick Hardwick, Mike Goff, Kris Dielman, Marcus McNeill and the rest of my teammates, I didn’t want to go anywhere else to play,” Mruczkowski said. “We’ve got a great group of guys here and a great team. For me, it didn’t make any sense to go somewhere else.”

That’s why the valuable reserve offensive lineman was so grateful when he was able to sign a new three-year contract with Chargers. Mruczkowski, who was scheduled to become a restricted free agent Thursday evening at 9:01 p.m. Pacific time, signed a new deal Wednesday that runs through the 2010 season.

“Knowing that I’m wanted, knowing that the coaches have a plan for me and knowing that they think highly of me is huge,” Mruczkowski said. “I’m just so happy that things worked out like they did.”

Mruczkowski joined the Chargers as a seventh-round draft pick in 2005 (242^nd overall). He’s played in 29 games, including all 16 in 2007, and has logged one start at left guard. While most of his playing time has been on special teams and as a reserve, the Chargers are pleased with the progress they’ve seen from the 6-5, 318-pound versatile lineman.

“Scott is a young player who we’ve seen improve during his three seasons in our program,” Chargers General Manager A.J. Smith said. “We think he’s got a bright future and we wanted to keep him in the fold. His work ethic is outstanding and he takes the game very seriously. He wants to get better. We’re glad that he wants to continue his development with us.”

During the last three training camps, “Mooch” has worked like his job was on the line. While he promises his approach won’t change, he’s comforted by the vote of confidence the new contract provides.

“As a seventh-round pick, you’re not guaranteed anything,” Mruczkowski said. “You’re just guaranteed training camp. For me to make it the last three years has been huge. I haven’t ever thought that I’ve had a secure job here. Now I feel like I’ve got a little bit of security that they know that I can play and that they’ve got confidence in me that I can get the job done.”

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