Three Pro Bowlers highlight potential Chargers cuts

Per Spotrac, the NFL's projected salary cap for 2023 is $224.8M, and the Chargers are already $19.7M over the cap. Clearly, they need to make big moves. Here are potential cuts.

Keenan Allen, WR

Allen played at an elite level from 2017-21, making five straight Pro Bowls. However, the wideout will be 31 next season and missed seven games in 2022.

During his absence, 23-year-old Joshua Palmer emerged as a viable option. He finished 2022 as the team's second-leading receiver behind Mike Williams with 769 yards. Palmer's rise might make the Chargers more comfortable moving on from Allen. 

If they release Allen after the June 1 deadline, the Chargers will save big bucks. According to Over the Cap, L.A. saves $17.5M and incurs a $4.2M cap hit compared to $14.8M and a $6.9M cap hit before the deadline. 

Khalil Mack, linebacker

Moving on from Mack is tricky because he played well in 2022, earning his seventh Pro Bowl. However, he turns 32 before the season and may not be a premier player for much longer. 

According to Over the Cap, Mack has two years remaining on his contract and is due $46.2M.

The Chargers have a top pass rusher in Joey Bosa, a four-time Pro Bowler, so Mack doesn't fill a huge need. Cutting Mack after the June 1 deadline saves $22.9M and carries a $4.5M cap hit. 

Corey Linsley, center

At 31, Linsley is another older player who's entering the twilight of his career, and he'll be 32 before the season starts. In 2022, the Chargers offensive line struggled to protect Justin Herbert, who was sacked 38 times, tied for seventh in the league.

Linsley has three years left on his contract with $36.5M due. Cutting him after the June 1 deadline results in $10.5M in cap savings.