The Los Angeles Chargers have officially released five-time Pro Bowl pass rusher Joey Bosa. This strategic move was made just before the start of free agency in a bid to save cap space, allowing the team to clear approximately $25.36 million towards the salary cap.

Bosa, drafted as the No. 3 overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft, has consistently performed well throughout his career, achieving five-plus sacks in eight out of nine seasons. Known for being the 2016 Defensive Rookie of the Year, Bosa has accumulated 72 career sacks, ranking second in franchise history behind Leslie O’Neal’s 105.5.

Releasing Bosa comes after signing a significant five-year, $135 million extension in 2020, during which time he faced various injuries. In the past three seasons, he has played only 14 games due to these issues. This past season, he managed to record 22 tackles, five sacks, and two forced fumbles as the Chargers regrouped their defense with players like Khalil Mack and others.

The franchise concluded the last regular season with an 11-6 record but faced elimination in the wild-card round. Looking ahead, the Chargers are positioned to make strategic additions to bolster their defense, especially in edge rushing, with the upcoming draft slated for April.