While the Los Angeles Chargers successfully retained the services of edge rusher Khalil Mack in free agency, their defensive front experienced a notable change with the departure of Joey Bosa, who was released by the team. Despite still possessing a solid edge-rushing trio in Mack, Bud Dupree, and Tuli Tuipulotu, the Chargers might still be considering adding another free agent to compensate for Bosa’s absence.
Is Za’Darius Smith The Answer For Los Angeles Chargers?
In this context, Anthony Palacios of Last Word on Sports suggests that the Chargers could potentially pursue former Detroit Lions edge rusher Za’Darius Smith. “With Joey Bosa in Buffalo, the Chargers have plenty of room for improvement,” Palacios wrote. “Los Angeles could consider signing Smith for immediate relief, as no matter where he goes, he never fails to make an impact. This could be Mack’s last season in the league, so they should get the best out of him, and pairing him with Smith might be what’s best for this pass-rushing unit.”
Smith’s 2024 season saw him contribute to two different teams. He began the year with the Cleveland Browns before being traded to the Lions at the trade deadline. Despite being 32 years old (turning 33 in September), Smith demonstrated that he still has significant ability, totaling nine sacks on the season.
Despite being slated to earn a reasonable salary of approximately $11 million, the Lions opted to part ways with Smith. General manager Brad Holmes explained that the decision was primarily financial. “It was an amicable decision,” Holmes stated. “We couldn’t afford it is the bottom line… That was my communication with him and he understood that.”
Smith could prove to be a more than capable replacement for Bosa, potentially even offering an upgrade in terms of availability. Unlike Bosa, Smith has generally maintained good health throughout his career. Additionally, his versatility allows him to move inside on obvious passing downs, providing the Chargers with a more dynamic and formidable pass-rushing threat.
It is anticipated that Smith will command a salary in the vicinity of $10 million on a one-year contract. The Chargers appear to be in a strong financial position to accommodate such a deal, as they currently possess $30.8 million in available cap space, according to Over The Cap.
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