Joey Bosa Takes Pay Cut to Stay with Chargers Amid Speculation
Chargers linebacker Joey Bosa has decided to remain with the team this season despite a whirlwind of offseason trade rumors and salary cap concerns. Bosa, who had two years remaining on a five-year, $135 million contract extension signed in 2020, opted to restructure his deal in March, taking a pay cut to stay with the Chargers. Given the salary cap issues, Bosa was viewed as a potential cut or trade candidate. By adjusting his contract, he ensured an $8 million guaranteed base salary for this season. Notably, there is no guaranteed money for Bosa in 2025, fueling speculation that this year might mark his final season in Los Angeles.
Loyalty to the Chargers
Bosa has emphasized his desire to stay with the Chargers, expressing interest in playing for one team throughout his entire career. His primary focus now is on winning games and contributing to the team's success. Bosa's eagerness to play alongside teammate Khalil Mack underscores his commitment to the Chargers. "I always thought of myself being somebody that will play here and retire here," Bosa shared, adding, "Winning football games is more important to me right now than making some extra money."
Overcoming Injuries
The past two seasons have been challenging for Bosa due to various injuries. He missed significant time with hamstring, foot, and toe injuries, and his 2022 season was cut short after spraining his foot in Week 11. Bosa's injury recovery included offseason surgery on his finger for a separate injury. Despite these setbacks, Bosa is feeling optimistic about his physical condition. "My foot's feeling great. Toe's good. The hamstring's good. I mean, there was a list of things last year, my hand, so all those things are good," he stated.
Heading into this season, Bosa feels better than he has in past years. "It's nice to be feeling better going into year nine than you have since maybe five, six years ago," he remarked. Bosa's confidence in both his body and performance is evident as he looks forward to training camp and matchups against rookie Joe Alt. "I've said I've been feeling great the last couple years. It's the real deal this time, but obviously anything can happen. It's fun, feeling really confident in your body and being able to perform," he explained.
Leadership and Commitment
Bosa's leadership and skillset will be pivotal for the Chargers this year. Last season, he demonstrated his capabilities with 2.5 sacks and a forced fumble in a Week 9 win over the Jets. As the team heads into the new season, Bosa's decision to take a pay cut underscores his commitment to the Chargers. Fans and teammates alike will be watching closely, hopeful that Bosa can help lead the team to victory.
Quotes
Reflecting on his career and future, Bosa said, "I always thought of myself being somebody that will play here and retire here, which I think not many people do on one team, and I think would be a cool thing to accomplish, but you never know. I'm going to worry about this year first."
He further emphasized his priorities: "Winning football games is more important to me right now than making some extra money. I want to win. I want to be on this team. I want another shot with the guys in this room, especially Khalil [Mack]."
Looking at the upcoming season, Bosa expressed optimism: "So I think we have a great opportunity here, and who knows, maybe I'll have a great year this year, and then things can change down the road."
Bosa also shed light on his physical condition: "My foot's feeling great. Toe's good. The hamstring's good. I mean, there was a list of things last year, my hand, so all those things are good."
He added, "It's nice to be feeling better going into year nine than you have since maybe five, six years ago. I've said I've been feeling great the last couple years. It's the real deal this time, but obviously anything can happen, but it's fun, feeling really confident in your body and being able to perform."
Speaking about rookie Joe Alt, Bosa said, "I'm going to need to beat him up a little bit in camp so he's ready. We'll see in a few weeks, when I lay a helmet on his chin, how he holds up."
Joey Bosa's journey with the Chargers is a testament to his dedication and belief in the team. As he prepares for what could be a defining season, his commitment and leadership are set to be crucial elements in the Chargers' quest for success.