The Los Angeles Chargers are trying to sneak into the AFC playoff picture, but that could be much more difficult if pass rusher Joey Bosa isn’t in the lineup. What happened to Bosa on Sunday, and what’s his current injury status?
Joey Bosa Injury Update
Bosa limped off the field early in the first quarter of the Chargers’ Week 11 game against the Green Bay Packers. He fell to the ground once he reached the sideline.
Los Angeles’ medical staff initially evaluated the veteran edge rusher before he was carted to the locker room. Sadly, Bosa’s head was buried in a towel, and he appeared to have tears in his eyes.
The Chargers initially announced Bosa was questionable to return with a foot injury. However, the club ruled him out during the third quarter. Bosa eventually returned to L.A.’s sideline, but he was using crutches and wearing a walking boot on his right foot.
#Chargers star pass rusher Joey Bosa limped off the field after this play and has been carted to the locker room.
— Pro Football Network (@PFN365) November 19, 2023
For what it’s worth, San Francisco 49ers edge rusher Nick Bosa said he spoke with his brother and said Joey’s injury may not be as severe as initially believed, per Cam Inman of the Mercury News.
On Monday, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported on Monday that Bosa did not suffer an Achilles injury and is likely dealing with a foot sprain. He will undergo an MRI on Monday.
The Bolts can’t afford to lose Bosa. The Chargers are tied for third in the NFL in sacks (31), but their underlying pass-rushing metrics are far more concerning. Los Angeles ranks in the bottom 10 league-wide in pressure, hurry, and quarterback knockdown rates.
Bosa has had trouble with his foot in the past. He missed nine games in 2018 with a foot issue and also dealt with foot or toe injuries in 2021 and earlier this season.
The Chargers were already light on edge depth, even with Bosa healthy. If he misses time, Khalil Mack will be asked to step up, while standout rookie Tuli Tuipulotu and veteran Justin Hollins will have to play more snaps.
MORE: Los Angeles Chargers Depth Chart
Bosa, 28, has posted 6.5 sacks this season while playing 57% of L.A.’s defensive snaps. He’s signed through the 2025 campaign.