The Washington Huskies have lost their most experienced offensive lineman, with coach Chris Petersen announcing Monday morning that Dexter Charles is retiring for medical reasons.
Petersen cited a lingering knee injury as the reason Charles, who started 30 games over the past three seasons, is stepping away.
"We're all very disappointed that Dexter's injury won't allow him to continue to play," Petersen said in a statement. "I'm grateful for his dedication and hard work and very pleased that he earned his degree. He's interested in the coaching profession, and I wish him nothing but the best."
Charles missed spring practices with an undisclosed injury and was Washington's only returning full-time starter on the offensive line. He was slated to start at left guard, though he has played multiple positions on the line throughout his career.
The Huskies open their season Sept. 4 at Boise State, where Petersen helped build the Broncos into a mid-major power before leaving for Washington in December 2013.