The LA Chargers have received unexpected good news regarding their salary cap situation, with a significant increase of over $30 million, bringing the total to $255.4 million. Initially projected to be around $240 million, this $15 million boost provides the Chargers with more flexibility to navigate roster changes during this period of organizational transition. Currently, the team sits just over $25.6 million above the salary cap according to Over the Cap.
While being under the cap would be ideal, the sudden influx of $15 million offers General Manager Joe Hortiz more options in determining the future of certain players. This surplus could potentially enable the Chargers to make impactful moves akin to acquiring players like Saquon Barkley or Josh Jacobs.
The LA Chargers have more cap wiggle room in 2024
While the recent decision does provide some relief, it’s inevitable that Mike Williams will be let go. Releasing him would put the Chargers just $5 million over the cap, allowing for another significant move to ensure cap compliance. The exact nature of this move remains uncertain, but it’s clear that action is imminent, possibly involving more than one transaction.
Despite his impressive performance last season, exploring options to trade or release Khalil Mack, the edge rusher, could potentially free up to $23 million in cap space for the Chargers.
Notably, without factoring in other potential moves like extending contracts for Keenan Allen and Joey Bosa, releasing or trading both Williams and Mack would immediately put the Chargers in a favorable financial position.
While extending Mack is an option, the Chargers must be cautious, considering the decline seen in aging edge rushers like Von Miller, now with Buffalo. Avoiding a similar misstep is crucial for the team’s future success.
Overall, the Chargers’ financial outlook has significantly improved with the updated cap number, adding excitement to the offseason for fans, potential players, and the team’s new leadership. It shifts the focus from a mere “rebuild” to a season with genuine potential for the Chargers to contend and possibly vie for a spot in the Super Bowl next February. The anticipation for the new league year is high, with expectations for what the revamped Chargers will bring to the 2024-2025 NFL season.
