Chargers News: Joey Bosa Opens Up on Connection with Fellow Defensive Pro Bowl Rusher, Aims to be Best Defensive Duo
The Los Angeles Chargers are full go in training camp, and from what we've heard thus far, things are looking good on both sides of the ball, especially the defensive side.
It was no secret that the Chargers' defense underperformed and was ranked among the bottom half in many defensive categories. The run defense was specifically bad, as they were the worst at stopping the run. LA still managed to make the playoffs, and for the most part, it was without their star defensive end, Joey Bosa.
Bosa missed 12 games throughout the 2022 season, and it really hurt the defense. All that is now behind the Bolts and Bosa as they aim to be among the best, and building chemistry with teammates is the best way to do so.
LA has a ton of stars on the defensive side of the ball, which means a lot of egos. However, LA is willing to put that aside for the better of the team, and it's crucial for them to do that.
One of the players Bosa is trying to connect more with is his All-Pro teammate, Khalil Mack. Mack and Bosa have seen little time together on the gridiron, and to improve that, they've been like two peas in a pod as of late.
Bosa shared with the media how their relationship has grown and his expectations as a duo.
"I'm probably as close with him as anybody I've ever played with. He's like a big brother, in a way," Bosa said. "Having a guy that's an elite player kind of complements me differently. We obviously have our different styles, but just as a friend and as a person, I'm really happy to have him on the team."
"I've said that a bunch of times already, but we all know the player that he can be and the player he is. After dealing with his foot surgery last year, he's coming out flying, feeling great," Bosa added. "We both have put some weight on, so we're both feeling good. I think, just as camp goes on, the chemistry will grow stronger and stronger. By the first week, I think we'll be out there to dominate again."
We've all seen how Mack can be a disruptive player, but he has yet to show that with the Bolts. His first season in LA wasn't ideal, as his edge mate missed a load of time.
Both of them expect things to be different; they should be and need it to be. There is a ton of pressure on the defense to perform and play to their standards or beyond that.
2023 is a crucial year; health is a big question mark; however, if Mack and Bosa are on the same side of the ball, there's no question the Chargers' defense will be among the best in the league.
