One of the most important players on the Los Angeles Chargers could be let go from the organization in order to avoid a bonus he’s due to collect next month.
After suffering injuries in previous seasons, Chargers pass rusher Joey Bosa stayed relatively healthy throughout the 2024 campaign – playing in 14 games.
However, according to ESPN’s Dan Graziano, the Los Angeles-based team could let go of the former NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year before he receives a $12.36million roster bonus in March.
Last season, Bosa re-structured his deal to remain with the team in 2024 as Jim Harbaugh came back to the NFL as a head coach. The deal had a potential out for this offseason, which would leave the Chargers with over $11million in dead cap space.
But with that $12m bonus and a salary of $13m due to him next year, it’s becoming increasingly unlikely that Bosa will stay on his current deal.
While there is a chance for Bosa to re-structure his contract once again, if the two sides can’t come to an agreement, he might be on the move.
The Los Angeles Chargers are reportedly considering cutting pass rusher Joey Bosa
It could lead to an entirely new looking pass rush for the Chargers under coach Jim Harbaugh
If he does move, he joins a lengthy list of pass rushers available to teams in free agency or on the trade market.
Among free agents include his Chargers teammate Khalil Mack and Eagles Super Bowl heroes Josh Sweat and Milton Williams.
Jets star Haason Reddick is also set to hit free agency after only agreeing a one-year deal following a prolonged holdout that lasted until the middle of the regular season.
As far as the trade market goes, Cleveland’s top player Myles Garrett has requested a move away from the Browns. Additionally, Raiders rusher Maxx Crosby’s name has been floated for a possible deal.
Essentially, despite his accolades, Bosa could only end up being a mid-tier option as the pool of candidates is very large.
Injuries have significantly hampered five of his nine NFL seasons. In 2022 and 2023, he played in a combined 14 games and only managed 30 total tackles.
The five-time Pro Bowler has 72 sacks across his career, five of which came last season.
Among rumored destinations for the 29-year-old include the Arizona Cardinals, Chicago Bears, Detroit Lions, Las Vegas Raiders and the San Francisco 49ers. A move to San Francisco would re-unite him with his younger brother, Nick Bosa.
