Chargers Retain All-Pro Khalil Mack with 1-Year Deal

The veteran pass rusher will return to Los Angeles for a fifth season.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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The Los Angeles Chargers have agreed to a one-year contract with veteran All-Pro linebacker Khalil Mack, keeping him off the free agent market. Mack, 35, was set to become an unrestricted free agent next week but will now remain with the Chargers, where he has been a team captain since joining the team in 2022.

Why it matters

Mack's return is a major boost for the Chargers' defense, which ranked 8th against the run last season with Mack as an integral part of the unit. The team will be transitioning to a new defensive coordinator, and Mack's leadership and experience will be valuable as they implement a new scheme.

The details

Mack had 5.5 sacks last season, his lowest total since his rookie year, but remained a difference-maker against the run. When Mack missed four games due to injury, the Chargers' run defense struggled, allowing the 6th most rushing yards in the NFL during that stretch. With Mack back, the Chargers will look to continue their strong defensive play.

  • Mack was set to become an unrestricted free agent next week.
  • Mack suffered a dislocated elbow in Week 2 against the Raiders last season, limiting him to 12 games.

The players

Khalil Mack

A 35-year-old All-Pro linebacker who has been a team captain for the Chargers since joining the team in 2022. Mack is a three-time All-Pro and nine-time Pro Bowler, and was named to the NFL's 2010s All-Decade Team.

Justin Herbert

The Chargers' starting quarterback, who has been sacked frequently in his career and will benefit from Mack's presence on the defense.

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What they’re saying

“When healthy, he was still a difference-maker on the Chargers' defense. In the four weeks without Mack, L.A. allowed 579 yards rushing, sixth most in the NFL; from when he returned in Week 7 until Week 18 -- when most Chargers starters sat out -- L.A. allowed the fourth-fewest rushing yards (1,046).”

— Kris Rhim, ESPN Reporter (ESPN)

What’s next

The Chargers will look to build on their strong defensive performance from last season with Mack leading the way, as they transition to a new defensive coordinator's scheme.

The takeaway

Retaining an All-Pro talent like Khalil Mack is a savvy move by the Chargers, as his leadership and impact on the defense will be crucial as the team looks to take the next step in 2026.