The Joey Bosa contract saga mercifully came to an end last week, but the Bosa injury saga may have just begun.
According to the San Diego Union-Tribune, the Chargers rookie defensive end was held out of team drills Monday because of "tightness" in his left leg.
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Chargers coach Mike McCoy said the injury is not a long-term concern, but it could jeopardize Bosa's playing status for Sunday's season opener against the Chiefs. Health issues aside, the No. 3 overall draft pick has yet to practice with the team in full pads and is short on much-needed reps.
San Diego officials have said they plan to ease Bosa into his role since resolving their acrimonious contract dispute Aug. 29.
Many questioned the Chargers when they took the Ohio State defensive end/linebacker combo so high in the draft, passing on the chance to select cornerback Jalen Ramsey or an offensive lineman to shore up their shaky protection. So far, those questions have been validated.
Despite finally coming to an agreement on a contract, it seemed like a stretch to assume Bosa would be able to suit up for Week 1, and this minor injury may have just ended any hope.
When Bosa, 21, finally does play — or practice for that matter — in a Chargers uniform, he will be expected to add a disruptive presence against the run and pass.