The Los Angeles Chargers made a notable announcement on Tuesday, revealing the release of linebacker Eric Kendricks, as per the team’s statement.
Kendricks had inked a two-year deal worth $13.25 million with the Chargers during the previous offseason, including guaranteed $6.75 million. Notably, a $1.25 million roster bonus was set to kick in if Kendricks remained on the roster by the third day of the new league year, slated for March 15.
By parting ways with Kendricks, the Chargers are set to save $6.5 million, albeit with a $2.5 million dead money charge. Despite being 32 years old, Kendricks served as a captain in 2023 and ranked second on the team with 117 tackles.
Currently, Daiyan Henley, selected in the third round of the 2023 draft, and Nick Niemann are the sole inside linebackers on the Chargers’ roster. Additionally, linebacker Kenneth Murray Jr., who ranked third in tackles for the team in 2023, is now a free agent.
This release marks the first significant roster move under the leadership of coach Jim Harbaugh and general manager Joe Hortiz. Following Kendricks’ departure, the Chargers find themselves $19 million above the salary cap, according to OverTheCap.com.
This move likely sets the stage for further adjustments, as Harbaugh and Hortiz aim to align the team with the salary cap requirements.
Key decisions loom, particularly concerning linebackers Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack, as well as wide receivers Mike Williams and Keenan Allen, all of whom carry cap hits exceeding $30 million for the upcoming season.
When queried about the situation during the NFL scouting combine, Hortiz remained noncommittal regarding the future of these players, emphasizing the necessity of cap compliance.
He stated, “In terms of the cap, I’m confident we can get there because you have to get there. I have no choice but to get under the cap, so I can promise you that we’re going to do that.”
