SPARTANBURG, S.C. -- Ryan Kalil is comfortable in his decision that 2018 will be his last in the NFL.  

• Ryan Kalil is playing in his final season in the NFL
• Although it's his last year, he is still focusing on winning
• Named one of the top centers in the league

He isn't letting that distract him from what is most important for his team.

"I just have one thing circling in my head, and that's finding a way to win," Kalil said Thursday night.  "It sounds like a cliché, and it sounds repetitive, but it's true and makes the most sense.  It doesn't matter if you're in your first year in the league or your last, I think it's the most important thing to do.  I just try to come out here everyday and figure out a way to help my team get better by making myself better."

It's that kind of attitude that has made Kalil one of the top centers in the NFL.  Entering his 12th campaign, Kalil has been named to five Pro Bowls, which ties him for the most appearances in the NFL All-Star Game with Luke Kuechly, Michael Bates, Julius Peppers, Steve Smith and Wesley Walls.

His longevity at the position has also produced an interesting twist.  Former teammate, Travelle Wharton, is now an offensive line coach with the team. Their friendship has now morphed into a different kind of working relationship, where the word 'coach,' is now in play.

"It is weird.  I don't think he likes when I say it, either," he said.