BREAKING: Los Angeles Chargers’ Announced The Signing Of Another Key Player
The 2023 season for the Los Angeles Chargers left a lasting impression, marked by a 5-12 record, securing them the 5th pick in the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft. Compounding their challenges, the team finds itself grappling with significant salary cap issues, exceeding it by $44 million. However, there is a glimmer of relief as one of their top players has consented to a renegotiated contract.
The Los Angeles Chargers and their elite center have agreed to a restructured contract.
According to ESPN’s Field Yates, Corey Linsley and the Los Angeles Chargers have reached an agreement on a revised contract. Under this arrangement, Linsley’s base salary for the 2024 season has been reduced from $11.5 million to the league minimum. This adjustment generates $10.29 million in available cap space. Additionally, if Linsley opts for retirement after June 1st, any resulting dead cap hit can be distributed across the following two years.
Why does this move matter?
Corey Linsley’s contract adjustment holds significance for two key reasons.
Firstly, it frees up cap space for the Los Angeles Chargers, bringing them closer to compliance with a current cap space deficit of around -$35 million.
Secondly, there’s an expectation that Linsley will retire during this offseason. Following his diagnosis with a non-emergent heart-related issue in September 2023, which led to his placement on the reserve/non-football illness list and subsequent absence for the remainder of the season, Linsley expressed his intention to retire. In January, he informed reporters that he is “99% sure” he will retire, citing the advice of a specialist who recommended cessation of play due to his heart condition.
Other roster moves will likely follow.
As previously stated, the Los Angeles Chargers currently have approximately -$35 million in cap space and must continue making roster adjustments to comply with the cap. Among the notable players who could undergo restructuring, be traded, or released are Khalil Mack, Joey Bosa, Keenan Allen, Mike Williams, Eric Kendricks, and Morgan Fox.
What now for the center position?
Due to their limited cap space, the Los Angeles Chargers are more inclined to address their future starting center position through the draft rather than signing high-profile free agents. Prominent prospects in the 2024 draft class, such as Jackson Powers-Johnson from Oregon, Zach Frazier from West Virginia, Sedrick Van Pran-Granger from Georgia, Drake Nugent from Michigan, and Beaux Limmer from Arkansas, offer potential solutions.
Moving forward, the Chargers will likely evaluate their options for the center position in the draft. Additionally, it is hoped that Corey Linsley recovers swiftly and enjoys quality time with his family.