Chargers May Have Chance to Acquire Pats Pass Rusher

K'Lavon Chaisson could become available as a cap casualty for the Patriots after his Super Bowl appearance.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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The Los Angeles Chargers could make a play for New England Patriots defensive end K'Lavon Chaisson, who is set to hit free agency after a strong 2022 season. With the Chargers having significant salary cap space and the Patriots potentially needing to make cost-cutting moves, Chaisson could be an affordable and productive option to replace the aging Khalil Mack.

Why it matters

The Chargers have several key defensive players hitting free agency, including Odafe Oweh and Khalil Mack. Acquiring the 24-year-old Chaisson on a team-friendly deal could provide a long-term solution at pass rusher and help offset the potential losses of Oweh and Mack.

The details

Chaisson, who joined the Patriots on a one-year, $3 million contract in 2022, had a breakout season with 7.5 sacks and 18 quarterback hits. His strong play in the Super Bowl has raised his value, with Spotrac projecting a 3-year, $26 million contract. The Patriots may not be able to afford to re-sign Chaisson given their other needs, potentially making him available as a cap casualty.

  • Chaisson joined the Patriots on a one-year, $3 million contract in 2022.
  • Chaisson had 7.5 sacks and 18 quarterback hits during the 2022 regular season.
  • The Patriots lost to the Chargers in the Super Bowl in 2022.

The players

K'Lavon Chaisson

A 24-year-old defensive end who had a breakout season with the New England Patriots in 2022, recording 7.5 sacks and 18 quarterback hits.

Odafe Oweh

A defensive player for the Los Angeles Chargers who is set to hit free agency.

Khalil Mack

A veteran defensive player for the Los Angeles Chargers who is also set to hit free agency and may be on the decline.

Drake Maye

The starting quarterback for the New England Patriots.

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What’s next

The Chargers will need to weigh the cost of re-signing Oweh and Mack against the potential of acquiring the younger and more affordable Chaisson in free agency.

The takeaway

The Chargers have a unique opportunity to add a talented young pass rusher in Chaisson, who could help offset the potential losses of Oweh and Mack. However, the team will need to carefully balance its defensive needs with its offensive priorities in free agency.