NFL shock: Joey Bosa released after nine seasons with Los Angeles Chargers

Joey Bosa is leaving the Los Angeles Chargers after spending nine seasons with the team. The Chargers officially announced his release on Wednesday night, parting ways with one of the franchise's best defensive players.

Bosa is one of the team’s highest-paid players, with a massive $36.5 million cap hit for the 2025 season. Releasing him will save the Chargers $25.36 million in cap space.

Injuries were a major concern for Bosa. He played in 14 or more games only four times in his nine-year career and was limited to just 18 total starts over the last three seasons due to various injuries.

Bosa’s Impact on the Chargers

The Chargers drafted Bosa No. 3 overall in the 2016 NFL Draft out of Ohio State. He made an immediate impact, winning Defensive Rookie of the Year after recording 10.5 sacks and 17 tackles for loss. Over his nine-year tenure, he became one of the most dominant pass rushers in team history:

Despite his extraordinary play, the Chargers won just one playoff game during his tenure. Reports suggest that he may join his younger brother Nick Bosa on the San Francisco 49ers, but no official confirmation has been made.