Chargers' Bosa supports Ingram sitting out over contract situation

Los Angeles Chargers defensive end Melvin Ingram is unhappy with his contract situation, and teammate Joey Bosa understands his plight.

Bosa said he supports Ingram's decision to sit out practice as Ingram looks secure a contract extension ahead of the 2020 season.

"We've talked a little bit and all I have to say is I'm going to support him," Bosa said Tuesday, according to Jeff Miller of the Los Angeles Times. "He's going to make the best decision for him and his family. I have faith in him that he's going to make the right decisions."

Bosa added: "At the end of the day, it is a business and he has to take care of himself. I think he would love to play with us. He wants to be out there. But he's (got to) handle business."

Ingram is entering the last season of a four-year, $64-million deal he signed in 2017.

The 31-year-old is at camp participating in individual activities - an expected development under the NFL's new collective bargaining agreement - but he hasn't participated in team drills on the field.

Ingram is set to earn $16 million in 2020, a figure that ranks among the 15 highest average annual salaries at his position, according to Spotrac. While Ingram likely wants more career security as he plays into his 30s, it's possible Bosa's record deal has fueled his desire for a new contract.

Bosa became the highest-paid defender in NFL history after inking five-year, $135-million contract extension in late July.

Ingram has made the Pro Bowl in each of the last three seasons. Drafted by the Chargers in the first round in 2012, he's racked up at least seven sacks in each of the last five campaigns and posted 10-plus-sack seasons in 2015 and 2017.

He amassed 48 tackles, seven sacks, and one interception through 13 games in 2019.

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