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chris rimm
multiple authors
Los Angeles–nine-time Pro Bowl pass rusher khalil mackA source told ESPN, who had considered retiring, that he will play in 2026.
The 35-year-old Mack is set to become an unrestricted free agent for the second time in his 12-year NFL career and will explore all options.
los angeles chargers Mack is expected to be re-signed, as he did last year.
Mack, the 2016 Defensive Player of the Year and one of the most decorated outside linebackers in NFL history, averaged 5.5 sacks in 2025, the second-lowest mark of his career, but that was partially due to an elbow injury that sidelined him for four games.
Even when healthy, he was a difference-maker on the Chargers’ defense. In four weeks without Mack, LA allowed 579 yards rushing, sixth-most in the NFL; From when he returned in Week 7 to Week 18 – when most of the Chargers’ starters were sitting out – LA allowed the fourth-fewest rushing yards (1,046).
Mack expected to win his first playoff game and reach the Super Bowl with the Chargers, but went 0–6 with a loss to LA in the postseason. new England Patriots.
“I want to eventually be a champion,” Mack said at his season-ending press conference.
Mack was selected with the fifth pick in the 2014 draft raiders and spent his first four seasons in Oakland. he was traded Chicago Bears Dealt to the Chargers at the start of the 2018 campaign and in 2022.
His 113 career sacks rank seventh among active players.
NFL Network first reported Mack’s plans.
