SAN DIEGO -- The San Diego Chargers have released left tackle Jared Gaither, who will go down as one of the biggest busts in former general manager A.J. Smith's tenure.

Gaither's release Wednesday after just one season of a four-year, $24.5 million contract will cost the Chargers a $6 million hit against the salary cap this year.

Gaither was claimed off waivers from division rival Kansas City late in the 2011 season and played well in the final five games. Eligible for free agency, he re-signed with the Chargers, who said there wasn't a better alternative on the market. Gaither developed a mysterious back injury early in training camp last summer and was slow to return, raising questions about his work ethic. Nicknamed "The Big Lazy" earlier in his career, he played in only four of the first 10 games before injuring his groin and going on injured reserve.