The Chargers have made a strategic move ahead of the upcoming free agency period by releasing veteran linebacker Eric Kendricks. This decision will provide the team with much-needed cap relief, amounting to roughly $6.5 million.

Despite this significant step, the Chargers still face a considerable cap deficit of approximately $19 million, even with the recent salary cap increase. General Manager Joe Hortiz and head coach Jim Harbaugh emphasized the urgency of addressing this issue during discussions at the NFL Combine last week. To navigate this challenge, the team is exploring various avenues, including additional roster adjustments, potential trades, and contract restructures.

Chargers face cap crunch ahead of NFL Draft 

The AFC West franchise made a significant financial move by releasing Eric Kendricks, which freed up $6.5 million in salary cap space. Kendricks, previously signed to a two-year, $13.25 million deal before the 2023 season, was due a $1.25 million roster bonus if he remained on the roster past March 15. Despite this cost-saving measure, the Chargers still find themselves facing a daunting “$19.1 million” overage in the salary cap. As they transition into a new era led by head coach Jim Harbaugh and general manager Joe Hortiz, addressing their financial constraints becomes a top priority.

While Kendricks and Kenneth Murray were brought in to shore up the Chargers’ run defense, their performance in pass coverage fell short of expectations. Both linebackers struggled, allowing over 1000 combined yards in pass coverage last season. With the team adopting a new defensive scheme under Jesse Minter, the fit for Kendricks and Murray becomes less clear. As both players head into free agency next week, the Chargers must navigate the complexities of restructuring their linebacker unit to align with their evolving defensive philosophy.

The Chargers re-model without Eric Kendricks

As the Chargers navigate their linebacker room restructuring, attention shifts to the potential role of Daiyan Henley. Despite his primarily special teams role in his rookie season, Henley is likely to be part of the team’s future plans. However, beyond him, the linebacker corps currently comprises mainly traditional special teams contributors. 

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To bolster their lineup, the Chargers may look to the 2024 NFL draft for prospects who fit well within Jesse Minter’s defensive scheme. Players like Junior Colson and Michael Barrett from Michigan could be enticing options to strengthen the linebacker unit. While the linebacker situation evolves, the Chargers also face decisions regarding key players such as Mike Williams, Khalil Mack, Keenan Allen, and Joey Bosa. These names will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping the team’s direction as they navigate the pre-free agency period.