Joey Bosa’s journey in the NFL began with promise when he was selected by the San Diego Chargers in the 2016 NFL Draft. Since then, he has been a consistent force, making significant contributions to the Chargers’ defensive unit. However, despite Bosa’s efforts, the team has faced ongoing struggles on the offensive side of the ball, which have prevented them from fully capitalizing on their defensive improvements.
Following a disappointing 5-12 record in the previous season, the Chargers are determined to shed their culture of defeat, and reports indicate that they are contemplating severing ties with their veteran defensive end.
Why are the Chargers likely to consider trading DE Joey Bosa?
To address their precarious financial situation, the Chargers are expected to part ways with Joey Bosa. It will result in substantial cap savings of $22 million for the team. This decision is driven by the team’s urgent need to alleviate their current cap overage, which stands at $25 million.
The Chargers’ formidable edge rusher carries a significant cap hit of $36.61 million for the 2024 season and $32.97 million in 2025, making his departure a crucial step in restructuring contracts and potentially trading valuable players.
Under the leadership of newly appointed head coach Jim Harbaugh, who was lured away from the University of Michigan, and the fresh perspective brought by new general manager Joe Hortiz, the Chargers are actively exploring avenues to reshape the franchise’s destiny. The duo is keen on utilizing every possible means to enhance the team’s financial flexibility.
Despite Bosa’s impressive track record with four Pro Bowl nods, including three consecutives from 2019 to 2021, the Chargers face the dilemma of balancing his potential on-field contributions with the financial burden he imposes.
Bosa remains a valuable asset for the team in 2024, but his hefty $20 million-plus salary for the upcoming season, coupled with recent injury concerns, raises questions about the feasibility of finding a trade partner.
However, teams with significant cap space, like the Chicago Bears, could potentially entertain the idea of acquiring the star defensive end and his substantial contract for the next two seasons.
What are Joey Bosa’s 2023-24 stats?
Throughout the 2023 season, Joey Bosa recorded a total of 20 tackles, with 14 of them being solo tackles and 6 assisted tackles. His disruptive presence extended to quarterback pressures, as he notched 6.5 sacks, per ESPN.
His impact wasn’t limited to sacks. Bosa also displayed his knack for forcing turnovers, contributing one forced fumble during the season. Additionally, he recovered a fumble but could not intercept any passes during the season.
Throughout his career, Bosa has consistently delivered exceptional performances, accumulating a staggering 321 total tackles. Among these, 235 were solo tackles while 86 were assisted tackles.
After dedicating his entire career to the Chargers, the seasoned pass rusher finds himself in a moment of ambiguity about what lies ahead.
Meanwhile, Bosa holds two more years on his contract, making him an enticing prospect for any competitive team aspiring to contend for the Super Bowl in the upcoming season.
