The Los Angeles Chargers will have a new guy under center in 2020, and there might be someone new protecting his blindside, too.
Offensive tackle Russell Okung has expressed uncertainty not only with the direction of the organization, but his future with the team, according to ESPN’s Josina Anderson.
A source tells me that #Chargers LT Russell Okung has expressed his uncertainty in the direction of the organization. While the team has attempted to reassure him, Okung remains skeptical of the team's direction and his future with the team.
— ig: josinaanderson (@JosinaAnderson) February 20, 2020
What this could mean is that Okung is aware that he could be a candidate to be cut, especially if the Chargers elect for a total rebuild now that quarterback Philip Rivers won’t be back.
Okung is signed through the 2020 season, but he missed 10 games in 2019 with a serious medical issue prior to the season and various lower body injuries when he returned to the starting lineup.
Because of what Okung endured last season, Los Angeles might be concerned to move forward with him. He will cost $15.5 million next season and releasing him would free up slightly north of $13 million in cap space.
Moving on from Okung isn’t something that the Bolts would like to do, but when availability concerns loom large over the player that has the highest salary cap hit on the team, it might be the most ideal route to go.
Finding capable offensive tackles in the NFL, especially on the left side, isn’t an easy thing to do. But if they were to release Okung, as well as restructure and/or release other players, L.A. should have enough to spend on other big-name tackles to fill the void (if Okung and the franchise part ways).