The Los Angeles Chargers made a significant roster move on Tuesday, announcing the release of linebacker Eric Kendricks.
Kendricks had joined the Los Angeles Chargers last offseason after signing a lucrative two-year, $13.25 million contract, which included $6.75 million in guaranteed money. The release came ahead of a critical deadline, as Kendricks would have been eligible for a $1.25 million roster bonus if he remained on the roster by the third day of the upcoming league year, slated for March 15. By parting ways with Kendricks, the Chargers managed to save $6.5 million, albeit incurring a dead money charge of $2.5 million.
Despite his age of 32, Kendricks proved his value to the team by serving as a captain during the 2023 season and finishing second on the roster with 117 tackles. With his departure, Daiyan Henley, a third-round pick from the 2023 draft, and Nick Niemann emerge as the sole inside linebackers on the Los Angeles Chargers’ roster. Additionally, linebacker Kenneth Murray Jr., who ranked third in tackles for the team in 2023, now enters free agency.
This release marks the first significant roster move under the leadership of coach Jim Harbaugh and general manager Joe Hortiz. The Los Angeles Chargers currently find themselves $19 million above the salary cap following Kendricks’ departure, as reported by OverTheCap.com.
With the team’s finances in mind, more changes could be on the horizon as Harbaugh and Hortiz strive to bring the Chargers into compliance with the salary cap. Key decisions loom regarding high-profile players such as linebackers Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack, as well as wide receivers Mike Williams and Keenan Allen, all of whom carry hefty cap hits exceeding $30 million for the upcoming season.
Speaking about the team’s financial challenges, Hortiz expressed confidence in their ability to navigate the situation, emphasizing the necessity of achieving cap compliance. He affirmed, “I have no choice but to get under the cap, so I can promise you that we’re going to do that.” As the Los Angeles Chargers embark on this restructuring journey, fans eagerly await further developments as the team shapes its roster for the upcoming season.
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