The 2023 NFL season is officially over, and once again, the Los Angeles Chargers' division rivals, the Kansas City Chiefs, are the last team standing.
It is the Chiefs' world; we're all just living in it. However, the page now turns over to the 2024 season, and it's a fresh start for all 32 NFL teams, including your Bolts.
2024 already looks promising for the Bolts with a new head coach and a new coaching staff. The future looks bright; however, not everyone looks at it that way, at least for the upcoming season thus far.
Moments after the Super Bowl ended, ESPN released their way-too-early 2024 power rankings. Your Bolts came in at number 25 in the rankings.
25. Los Angeles Chargers 2023 Record: 5-12
Offseason in three words: Salary Cap Hell
"The Chargers are projected to be $54.2 million over the salary cap next season. They have a roster that touts star players, and on paper, they seem like they could contend, especially after hiring former Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh. They could result in contract restructuring instead of trading or releasing players such as outside linebacker Joey Bosa or wide receiver Mike Williams. But pushing money ahead will only give the Chargers more cap issues in the future. One of Harbaugh's first major tasks will be deciding how to move forward. -- Kris Rhim
via Kris Rhim, ESPN
Although there is a ton of excitement surrounding Harbaugh and the Bolts, their cap space is a severe issue. The cap space issue could put this team in challenging situations and cost them some key players they're looking at in free agency.
It's the only thing hindering the Bolts' chances, and it may also be the biggest thing this season. It's not out of the possibility for the Chargers to fix this, but it will be tough.
That may mean the team may need to get rid of star players like Khalil Mack, Joey Bosa, Mike Williams, Keenan Allen, or Derwin James. It's a tough bind for the Bolts to be in, and some tough decisions will need to be made this off-season.
Still, 25 may be too harsh. However, if the Bolts draft well and retain some key players, this team could be the juggernaut we expect them to be.