In a surprising decision, the Los Angeles Chargers have parted ways with star defensive end Joey Bosa after nine seasons with the team. The move, announced Wednesday night, ends an era for one of the franchise’s most dominant defenders.
Bosa, 29, carried a hefty cap hit of over $36 million for the 2025 season. By releasing him, the Chargers will save $25.36 million, though they will take on an $11.11 million dead money charge, according to Over the Cap.
A Promising Start and Injury Struggles
Drafted third overall in 2016 out of Ohio State, Bosa made an immediate impact, winning AP Defensive Rookie of the Year after racking up 10.5 sacks and 41 tackles. Over his career, he earned five Pro Bowl selections, including one in 2024 when the Chargers reached the playoffs under head coach Jim Harbaugh.
However, injuries have plagued Bosa in recent years. A broken hand suffered in training camp, along with a glute strain affecting his sciatic nerve, limited his availability. Over the past three seasons, he played in just 28 games, starting 18.
Bosa’s Reflections on His Challenges
Despite his talent, Bosa has been open about his frustrations with his injuries. Speaking in October, he admitted feeling like he had let his team down.
"I feel like I’ve been letting my team down missing these games," Bosa said. "Letting everybody down, letting coaches down. Letting the organization down. Letting myself down. It just sucks how these years have gone, the last few years."
With Bosa now hitting free agency, teams in need of a veteran pass rusher will likely have strong interest in adding the former Pro Bowler to their roster.
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