Joey Bosa has been a cornerstone of the Los Angeles Chargers’ defense for years, but with a new coach at the helm in Jim Harbaugh, significant changes might be on the way for the franchise. After a playoff run that left much to be desired, the Chargers are re-evaluating their roster and making bold moves to chart a new course.
With a hefty $63.5 million in cap space—ranking fifth in the NFL—Los Angeles is in a prime position to reshape their lineup. This financial flexibility not only underscores their ability to make aggressive acquisitions but also signals a shift toward a younger, more dynamic roster. And in a move that’s turning heads across the league, the Chargers have elected to release Bosa.
Slicing Expectations: The Case for Cutting Joey Bosa
The conversation around Bosa’s future with the team had been bubbling over the last offseason, driven by the need to manage cap constraints alongside a shift in coaching philosophy. Now, it appears the decision has reached a fever pitch as the Chargers aim to revamp their squad.
At 30 years old, Bosa is coming off a season where he tallied 39 pressures and six sacks. However, a troubling statistic lies in his tackling—he missed about 15.4% of his attempts. While he remains capable of making plays, these concerns about his injury history and diminishing consistency have raised red flags. The bottom line: the Chargers are looking to the future, and they have to weigh the cost of keeping Bosa against potential savings.
By cutting Bosa, the Chargers will save a significant $25 million. This newfound financial freedom could pave the way for a number of strategic moves, especially regarding fellow pass rusher Khalil Mack, who enters free agency after a season highlighted by 52 pressures and nine sacks. Mack’s performance has positioned him as a vital component of the Chargers’ defensive lineup, especially in the wake of Bosa’s departure.
There’s also the possibility of re-signing key players like Asante Samuel Jr. or even pursuing a big-name wide receiver to strengthen the offensive side of the ball. In any scenario, one thing is clear: cutting Bosa aligns with a broader strategy focused on revitalizing the team.
A New Beginning for Bosa?
Should Bosa officially hit the open market, the speculation around his next destination is already heating up. While discussions have surrounded a potential reunion with his brother on the San Francisco 49ers, another fitting landing spot could be the Miami Dolphins. This connection is particularly poignant because of Bosa’s family ties—his father once donned the Dolphins’ uniform.
The Dolphins, who struggled with consistency in their pass rush last season, ranked just 12th in pressures and recorded the sixth-fewest sacks. Adding a player of Bosa’s caliber could provide the stability and firepower they desperately need on the defensive front. With Chop Robinson emerging as a viable option, but Bradley Chubb and Jaelan Phillips grappling with injuries, Bosa could very well be the game-changer that elevates Miami’s defense into a formidable group for the 2025 season.
In the grand scheme of things, Bosa’s release represents a pivotal moment not just for him but for the Chargers and whatever team he joins next. The balance of power in the league may well hinge on these strategic changes, and it’s an exciting time for fans to follow how it all unfolds.
