Chargers Star Joey Bosa Returns After Missing Multiple Weeks Due to New Injury

The Los Angeles Chargers made the tough decision to let two of their best players go, as both wide receivers Keenan Allen and Mike Williams are now playing for new teams. New general manager Joe Hortiz did what he could to keep the core skill players on the team, which included perennial linebackers Khalil Mack and Joey Bosa.

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Both Bosa and Mack took pay cuts to remain with the Chargers, which was good news for new defensive coordinator Jesse Minter. The issue is that Bosa continues to deal with durability issues.

Back on Aug. 4, Bosa exited joint practice with the Los Angeles Rams after suffering a hand/wrist injury. He had not touched the practice field since then. However, the Chargers got some good news, as Bosa has finally returned after nearly missing three weeks of practice.

ESPN’s Kris Rhim revealed that Bosa returned to practice, but was working off to the side with a trainer. Instead of being involved in team drills, he instead is returning slowly.

The good news is that Bosa has finally returned. The bad news could mean that he may not be ready to go by Week 1. Returning to practice is one thing, but not being able to be involved in team drills might mean the linebacker has to be brought along slowly.

The Chargers are set to face off against the Dallas Cowboys in their final preseason matchup on Aug. 24. It will be unlikely that Bosa suits up in what is supposed to be the “dress rehearsal” for starters.

Bosa might be held out of the final preseason game in lieu of being ready to suit up when the Chargers take on their divisional rivals in the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 1. Sep. 8 is a little over two weeks away, and the training staff is likely going to keep Bosa from exerting himself too much in case the wrist/hand injury flares up.

Bosa is instrumental in the pass rush the Chargers have as long as he is healthy. When Bosa and Mack are on the field together, L.A. has one of the most formidable duos in the entire league.

The issue is Bosa continues to deal with injuries. Bosa has not played a full season since 2021. He missed most of 2022 after undergoing groin surgery.

The 2023 season also saw Bosa miss eight games due to a pedal foot sprain.

The hope is the wrist injury Bosa has been dealing with is a minimal one, and he can remain healthy for 2024 — though his track record indicates he is prone to missing some time.