Chargers Part Ways with Long Time Edge Rusher
As the current roster stands, there are no more drafted San Diego Chargers on the now Los Angeles Chargers. Joey Bosa, the last remaining San Diego Charger drafted player, was released after a nine-year career with the Bolts. Bosa ends his time with the Chargers franchise with 72 regular season sacks and five Pro Bowl selections. He also was named the Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2016. The former third overall pick in the NFL Draft will now enter the 2025 new league year looking for a new home.
Bosa, who is 29 years old, has had a rough couple of seasons staying healthy. In 2022, Bosa played only in five games and in 2023 had his season cut short after nine appearances. His injury issues and lack of production were evident. This past season, Bosa played in 14 games and posted five sacks. However, he was named as a Pro Bowl selection for the 2024 season. He still shows flashes of being his old self, but his injury history and age are something teams will have to navigate with.
The edge rusher took a pay cut last offseason to return to the team but ultimately will be a cap casualty this year. Bosa’s cap number heading into next season was at a huge $36.47 million. With the release of Bosa, the Chargers have freed up $25.36 million in cap to use in free agency. The Chargers now find themselves with nearly $91 million to make much needed upgrades and fill holes.
Starting off, Bosa was a crucial veteran in the edge room with Khalil Mack, who is an unrestricted free agent. Bosa and Mack were key leaders to the development of Tuli Tuipulotu. The Chargers edge room currently is only Tuipulotu and Bud Dupree. Jim Harbaugh and Joe Hortiz have both expressed how much they would like to bring Mack, but may need to also add another pass rusher with Bosa gone. It has also been rumored that the Chargers are actively looking for a big time wide receiver to pair with Ladd McConkey. D.K. Metcalf and Davante Adams are potential targets. The defensive line and interior offensive line need some shoring up as well.
Many teams will be interested in Bosa. The Detroit Lions have been in the market for an edge rusher to pair with Aidan Hutchinson and the San Francisco 49ers can be an intriguing option. Bosa could potentially team up with his little brother, Nick Bosa, something that has been hinted at since they joined the league. The NFL free agency legal tampering period starts on March 10th.
