The Los Angeles Chargers released Joey Bosa earlier this week in a move that stunned rival teams. But inside the Chargers building, there was no other move to make besides parting ways with Bosa.
The Pro Bowl edge rusher was set to make around $20 million this season, but by releasing him, Los Angeles was able to save $25 million. Thanks to the move, they now have the second most cap space available in the NFL.
Since Bosa's future was up in the air for a couple months, general manager Joe Hortiz was rightfully grilled about the situation. When asked last week, he explained how much the former Defensive Rookie of the Year meant to the team and expressed both sides' desire for him to retire a Charger.
It may be hard to believe that after Bosa was cut, but that wish might still be possible.
Los Angeles Chargers linebacker Joey Bosa (97) warms up prior to a game against the Kansas City Chiefs at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports
On an episode of "The Insiders," NFL Network reporter Ian Rapaport, who is a close friend of Hortiz, discussed the situation. He explained that there is still a possibility that the team re-signs Bosa, but the Chargers simply couldn't justify paying him at his previous cap number.
It's no secret that the star pass rusher has dealt with his fair share of injuries the last few seasons. That's a large part of the reason Los Angeles felt he was making too much. But he has been a mainstay of the roster for nearly a decade and still can play at an elite level when he's healthy.
With $90 million in cap space and a dire need for defensive linemen, it makes perfect sense why the Chargers would try to bring Bosa back on a cheaper deal. His running mate, Khalil Mack, is also a free agent and is intrigued by testing free agency for the first time.
The team might be able to work around losing one, but they know they can't lose both of their edge rushers.
Rapaport also reported that Bosa would first like to check out free agency as well, before deciding whether a return to Los Angeles is in his best interest. He was already hesitant about taking a pay-cut last offseason, so it's hard to imagine he'd race to do it again.
The moratorium opens on March 10, just two days before free agency, where teams can begin having discussions with free agents other than their own. So, within the next week it should become clear where Bosa and the Chargers stand on a potential reunion.
Related: Chargers Make Final Decision on Joey Bosa's Future
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This story was originally published March 7, 2025 at 4:35 PM.