Joey Bosa Released by Chargers: What’s Next for the Star Edge Rusher?

The NFL world was stunned when the Los Angeles Chargers made the bold decision to release their five-time Pro Bowl pass rusher, Joey Bosa, after nine seasons with the team. This unexpected move has raised questions not only about Bosa's future but also about the impact it will have on the Chargers' defense and the teams that could potentially bring him on board. With $25.36 million in cap space now freed up, the Chargers are setting their sights on reshaping their roster, while Bosa enters the uncertain world of free agency. So, what’s next for the star edge rusher?

A Look Back at Joey Bosa’s Career with the Chargers

Joey Bosa was drafted by the Chargers as the third overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft and quickly became one of the league's premier edge rushers. In his rookie season, Bosa earned the AP Defensive Rookie of the Year award, setting the tone for what would be an impressive career. Over his nine seasons in Los Angeles, Bosa accumulated 72 sacks, which ranks second in franchise history, and made five Pro Bowls. He established himself as a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks and an essential part of the Chargers' defense.

Despite his accolades, Bosa’s recent seasons have been marred by injuries. Over the past three years, Bosa has only played 28 games due to a series of injuries, including issues with his groin, ankle, and back. These setbacks contributed to the Chargers’ decision to part ways with the edge rusher, despite his immense talent. The team’s cap hit for Bosa in 2025 was over $36 million, and his release clears significant space to help the Chargers reshape their roster heading into the 2025 season.

The Bosa Brothers: A Possible Reunion in San Francisco?

As soon as Bosa's release news broke, one of the first questions on everyone's mind was, where will he go next? One destination that immediately comes to mind is the San Francisco 49ers. The 49ers are one of the most defensively dominant teams in the NFL, and they have a unique opportunity to pair Joey Bosa with his brother, Nick Bosa, who already plays for San Francisco.

The prospect of the Bosa brothers teaming up could be a game-changer for the 49ers' defense. Nick Bosa is already one of the league’s top pass rushers, and having Joey on the opposite side could wreak havoc on opposing offenses. The 49ers are in need of a little depth on the defensive line, and Joey Bosa could fill that void perfectly. The odds of this happening are high, with many experts speculating that the 49ers are the frontrunners to sign him.

The New Orleans Saints: A Contender for Bosa’s Services

Another team that could be interested in Bosa’s services is the New Orleans Saints. The Saints have long been known for their aggressive defense, and they could benefit from adding a proven pass rusher like Bosa to their roster. Additionally, there’s a connection between Bosa and the Saints' new defensive coordinator, Brandin Staley. Staley was the Chargers' head coach when Bosa was at his peak, and the two have a solid professional relationship.

The Saints could look to add Bosa to their defensive line as they prepare for another run at the NFC South title. Bosa’s ability to rush the passer and stop the run would be a huge asset for New Orleans, and pairing him with other defensive stars could give the Saints one of the most formidable defenses in the NFC.

Philadelphia Eagles: A Strong Defensive Line Gets Stronger

The Philadelphia Eagles are another team that could be a landing spot for Joey Bosa. The Eagles are currently making adjustments to their defensive line, and with the possibility of some departures in free agency, Bosa could be an excellent addition to an already stacked defense. The Eagles have been dominant on defense in recent seasons, and Bosa’s ability to get after the quarterback could make them even more dangerous.

Philadelphia’s defense was one of the best in the league last season, and Bosa could further strengthen that unit, giving the Eagles a dynamic pass rush. With quarterback pressures being crucial in today’s NFL, Bosa could fit seamlessly into a defense that already features stars like Fletcher Cox and Brandon Graham. His versatility and skill set would make him a key piece of a defense that aims to contend for the Super Bowl once again.

Other Potential Landing Spots

While San Francisco, New Orleans, and Philadelphia stand out as the top three contenders for Bosa’s services, other teams could be interested in adding the star pass rusher to their roster. Teams like the Kansas City Chiefs, Buffalo Bills, and Miami Dolphins all have a need for a top-tier edge rusher, and Bosa could be the perfect solution.

The Kansas City Chiefs, in particular, could be a strong contender, as they have a championship-caliber team and would love to bolster their defense even further. Similarly, the Buffalo Bills, who are looking to remain competitive in the AFC, could benefit from adding a player of Bosa’s caliber to their already solid defense.

The Future of Joey Bosa

For Joey Bosa, this is a critical juncture in his career. While his release from the Chargers might be a setback, it also presents an opportunity for a fresh start. He has the chance to join a team with a strong defensive unit that can help him reach the heights he achieved early in his career. While his injury history is a concern, his potential to disrupt offenses and his pedigree as one of the league’s top pass rushers make him a highly coveted free agent.

As the 2025 season approaches, it’s clear that Joey Bosa will have options. Whether he reunites with his brother in San Francisco, helps rebuild a defense in New Orleans, or joins an already-loaded squad like the Eagles, one thing is certain: Bosa’s next move will be closely watched, and it will have a significant impact on the NFL landscape.

Conclusion

Joey Bosa’s release from the Chargers signals the end of an era in Los Angeles but also opens up a new chapter for the star edge rusher. His next destination will be one of the most talked-about stories in the offseason, with several NFL teams vying for his services. Whether he joins the 49ers, the Saints, the Eagles, or another contender, Bosa’s presence on a new team will undoubtedly make that defense stronger. For the Chargers, the decision to part ways with Bosa creates an opportunity for them to build a new defensive identity, but it also marks the end of one of the franchise's most productive eras. As the offseason unfolds, it will be exciting to see where Bosa lands and how his career continues to evolve.