The Los Angeles Chargers’ already struggling defense was dealt a major blow during Sunday’s ugly loss to the Green Bay Packers.
Star EDGE rusher Joey Bosa exited in the first quarter of the game with what was being described as a foot injury. We now have more information on this courtesy of embattled Chargers head coach Brandon Staley.
In talking to reporters on Monday, Staley indicated that Bosa is likely headed for a stint on injured reserve with a sprained foot. This would cost the Pro Bowl defender a minimum of four games.
We knew something was up during Sunday’s game against the Packers when Bosa was seen on the sideline in a very emotional state while being consoled by trainers, coaches and teammates. He was later seen on the sideline with a walking boot and crutches.
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To say that this is a massive blow for the Chargers’ defense would be an understatement. At 4-6 following Sunday’s loss, Los Angeles ranks in the bottom 10 of the NFL in points allowed. Its pass defense has yielded 16 touchdowns compared to six interceptions in 10 games. It was already one of the worst units in the NFL.
- Joey Bosa stats (2023): 20 tackles (6 for loss), 8 QB hits, 6.5 sacks
Bosa, 28, has dealt with his fair share of injuries recently. He’s appeared on the injury report already four times this season and missed all but five games during the 2022 campaign due to a core muscle injury.
With Bosa sidelined, the Chargers are going to have to rely more on Khalil Mack to do his thing from a pass-rush perspective.