The 2023 season for the Los Angeles Chargers was memorable but not in a good way, culminating in a 5-12 record. They now sit at the 5th spot for the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft. Adding to their challenges, the team is facing significant salary cap issues, with a whopping $44 million exceeding their cap limit. However, there’s a silver lining as one of their star players has agreed to adjust their contract terms, providing some relief.

The Los Angeles Chargers and their elite center have agreed to a restructured contract.

According to Field Yates of ESPN, Corey Linsley and the Los Angeles Chargers have reached an agreement to restructure his contract. Under this arrangement, Linsley’s base salary for 2024 will be reduced from $11.5 million to the league minimum, resulting in a significant $10.29 million in cap space being freed up. Additionally, if Linsley decides to retire after June 1st, the team has the option to spread the dead cap amount over the following two years.

Why does this move matter?

Corey Linsley’s contract restructuring carries significant implications for the Los Angeles Chargers for two primary reasons.

Firstly, it alleviates their cap space crunch, with the team now standing at approximately -$35 million, edging closer to compliance with the cap limit.

Secondly, Linsley’s impending retirement adds another layer of importance to this move. His placement on the reserve/non-football illness list in September due to a diagnosed heart-related issue sidelined him for the entirety of the 2023 season. With Linsley expressing a high likelihood of retirement, having stated to reporters in January that he is “99% sure” about his decision, this restructuring anticipates and prepares for his departure from the team.

“After my last appointment, I met with a specialist whose entire career is on this particular portion of the heart,” Linsley said. “His advice was to stop playing. 99 percent sure that’s what’s going to happen.”