Joey Bosa released by Chargers as Cardinals’ pool of DL free agent options grows
The Los Angeles Chargers released veteran edge rusher Joey Bosa on Wednesday, a week before free agency is set to begin.
Bosa, a five-time Pro Bowl selection, joins the list of edge rushers that the pass-rush needy Arizona Cardinals could target in free agency. He spent nine years with the Chargers, who used the No. 3 overall pick to select the rusher in 2016.
The Chargers save $25.36 million in cap space with the move. This past season was Bosa’s healthiest of the last three years, as he played in 14 games, starting nine, and totaled five sacks and 22 tackles.
Bosa played in just nine games in 2023 and five in 2022 due to injuries.
For his career, Bosa, 29, has eclipsed the double-digit sack mark four times — in 2016 (10.5 sacks), 2017 (12.5), 2019 (11.5) and 2021 (10.5).
Bosa’s 72 sacks are tied for 10th most in the NFL since he entered the league and are second in Chargers history.
In a surprising move, the Los Angeles Chargers have released five-time Pro Bowler Joey Bosa, ending his nine-year tenure with the team. Bosa, 29, was drafted third overall in 2016 and made an immediate impact, earning the AP Defensive Player of the Year honors as a rookie. Over his career, he accumulated 72 sacks, ranking second in franchise history. However, recent seasons were marred by injuries, limiting him to 28 games over the last three years. The decision to release Bosa was influenced by his substantial cap hit of over $36 million for 2025, with the team saving $25.36 million despite incurring $11.111 million in dead money.
This development expands the pool of defensive line free agents available to teams like the Arizona Cardinals, who have been exploring options to bolster their defensive front. The Cardinals entered the offseason with $75.5 million in cap space and have identified defensive line, edge rusher, and linebacker as key areas needing reinforcement. They have shown interest in free agents such as Milton Williams from the Philadelphia Eagles.
Given Bosa’s proven track record and the Cardinals’ need for defensive upgrades, he could be a valuable addition to their roster. However, it’s important to note that Bosa’s recent injury history and significant salary demands may influence the Cardinals’ pursuit. The team’s decision will likely balance Bosa’s potential impact against these considerations.