Khalil Mack
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Chargers' star pass rusher Khalil Mack won't retire this offseason, and will instead test the waters of free agency
The Los Angeles Chargers have some work to do this offseason. While they found their way to the playoffs in 2025, they were quickly bounced in the wild-card round by the New England Patriots. Head coach Jim Harbaugh has quickly revamped the rest of his staff early in the offseason, but now the team needs to find a way to revamp its roster.
The first order of business involves keeping its current crop of free agents in town. Perhaps the biggest name of the bunch is star pass rusher Khalil Mack, who has seen retirement rumors swirl around him as of late. With free agency quickly approaching, Mack appears to have made a final decision on his future that will surely catch the Chargers’ attention.
Khalil Mack Pushes Off Retirement, Set to Test Free Agency
Throughout his 12-year career, Mack has earned a reputation for being one of the top pass rushers in the NFL. He has now spent four seasons apiece with the Oakland Raiders, Chicago Bears, and the Chargers, and at each stop, he’s remained one of the most impactful defenders in the league.
In 2025, Mack missed five games, but he still racked up 32 tackles, 5.5 sacks, and four forced fumbles for the Chargers. He may not be the All-Pro caliber player he once was, but Mack still has a lot to offer, even if he only begins getting used primarily as a pass rusher moving forward. At the age of 35, though, it’s fair to wonder how much longer Mack wants to play for.
At this point in his career, Mack’s legacy is already set in stone, but he’s still chasing his first Super Bowl ring. With there still being some juice left in the tank, Mack reportedly doesn’t plan on calling it a career just yet, as he is set to test the waters of free agency now that his contract with Los Angeles is up.
“Chargers legend Khalil Mack, one of the top edges available, will play in 2026, sources say,” Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported in a post on X. “At the age of 35, coming off a strong season, Mack is a priority for LA. Instead of retirement, Mack is back exploring all options and will be a big-time target in free agency.”
Should the Chargers Re-Sign Khalil Mack?
Khalil Mack, Chargers
GettyLos Angeles Chargers outside linebacker Khalil Mack.
It’s fair to assume that if Mack is still playing football, he’s looking to win a championship, as he’s accomplished pretty much everything else you can in the NFL. So while the Chargers remain interested in re-signing Mack, it may come down to whether or not he believes they are capable of going on a Super Bowl run in 2026.
Los Angeles wants to keep Mack around, and it isn’t too hard to see why that’s the case. However, it also wouldn’t be surprising to see him find a new home, especially with a new defensive scheme being implemented by new defensive coordinator Chris O’Leary. Mack will be back next season, but whether or not he will be sticking in L.A. is the big question for the time being.