After firing offensive coordinator Greg Roman, the Los Angeles Chargers are already facing uncertainty on offense, but defensively, the future with Khalil Mack is currently undecided. According to sources, Mack is considering his future once again, just a year after taking time away to decide what he wants to do next. Last season, the linebacker didn’t want to rush a decision, and that seems like the case here. Los Angeles had a promising 2025 campaign with a strong defense that had a lot of hope to do well in the postseason.
Unfortunately, it came down to the offense crumbling, led by Justin Herbert, who didn’t have much help while dealing with injuries. Since the Chargers will probably rebuild with a new offensive coordinator, this could lead Mack to test free agency instead.
3 Teams That Could Help Decide Chargers NFL Khalil Mack Future
Mack came back to hopefully win a ring with the Chargers. However, the team is nowhere near being the roster that is there just yet. The linebacker might have to make a tough decision and leave Los Angeles for newer heights. Originally selected as a first-round pick, the former Buffalo product became one of the better edge rushers in today’s league. Mack has slowed down after having illustrious seasons with the Bears and Chargers, recording nine Pro Bowls and hauling in 113 sacks in his career.
The veteran is truly a Hall of Famer, and he might be far from done. Unfortunately for him, he isn’t the same defensive threat he once was. This shouldn’t scare teams away despite suffering an injury this past 2025 campaign. He should be back for one more season with these three teams that could offer a better environment.
Potential Destinations
Chicago Bears
Nobody should rule out the possibility of a reunion, but the Chicago Bears will have to wait until next season. While the Bears look like they could reach the Super Bowl, the team could at least be an NFC Championship exit. The only issue is their cap space, including the priority of re-signing some of their impending free agents, including Jaquan Brisker. However, the Bears have built a nice, stable defensive line between Montez Sweat and Gray Jarrett. Both have been reliable veterans and are a reason why they’ve made this far in the playoffs.
Chicago shouldn’t have to worry if they fail to win a ring, as it could set up a reunion for Mack anyway. The Bears might be in a better environment if Mack returns, even though he won’t be in his prime anymore like he was in 2018. The familiarity could be useful for a nostalgia run to help quarterback Caleb Williams and Mack win their first Super Bowl.
Los Angeles Rams
The Rams are fit because they’ve proven to be a postseason threat every season. After almost losing Matthew Stafford, the team was close to a rebuild year, but that probably won’t be the case for another 2-3 campaigns. Jared Verse could use some of Mack’s vision and knowledge of the game to leave him in a better place for the rest of his career. The last time the Rams had a ferocious defensive threat was when they had Aaron Donald. Mack isn’t going to be on that level, but imagine him and Verse on one defense; it could be something special for the Rams for at least a season.
San Francisco 49ers
Meanwhile, San Francisco is a team that lost a lot of key defensive starters, including Fred Warner, Nick Bosa and rookie Mykel Williams. They’ll be back if the 49ers are interested in Mack this offseason, but they might need him in case they lose talent during the 2026 season. Despite the injuries, the team found itself competing for a Super Bowl. However, they can’t afford another situation like the one they’re in.
Mack probably won’t get a starting role, but he doesn’t need to, given his age. The linebacker could be an intriguing option for the 49ers.