The Los Angeles Chargers decided to part ways with offensive tackle Joe Barksdale the day after the Chargers' comeback victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday Night Football.
#Chargers are waiving veteran OT Joe Barksdale, source said. Barksdale (@jbdale72 tweeted his goodbye). He’s been inactive as of late, but is healthy.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 3, 2018
Barksdale showed nothing but class and appreciation for the Chargers organization in his farewell.
I just want to take a moment to say thank you to the Chargers organization and all of the true die hard Charger Fans. Since 2015 this team has been my home and my teammates my family. I will truly miss everyone, but look forward to what the future has in store for me.
— Joseph Barksdale (@jbdale72) December 3, 2018
Seeing as Barksdale is healthy he may not be unemployed very long, and a contending team may call upon the veteran lineman to add some depth to a crucial possession. Barksdale reached a hefty four-year contract extension of $22 million back in 2016 after signing a one-year contract with the team the previous season.
Although Barksdale was a healthy scratch in Sunday's game against the Steelers, it's clear that the Chargers are simply going in a different route in terms of their offensive line. Los Angeles used right tackle Sam Tevi in Sunday's game against Pittsburgh. The young lineman got away with an obvious false start, but otherwise fared well in the Chargers' win.
Barksdale's positivity amidst the unfortunate news is something not all players exhibit upon being waived. Another team may be in the market for Barksdale's experience on the line considering how significant a great offensive line is heading into the postseason.
Los Angeles has been incredibly solid this season as it now possesses a 9-3 record but faces the tough task of catching up to the powerhouse Kansas City Chiefs who lead the AFC West. Phillip Rivers leads a strong offense on one end, but it's the young and talented defense that may be the difference maker going forward.
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