Report: Chargers LB Khalil Mack passes on retirement, will test free agency

Field Level Media|published: Mon 2nd March, 15:57 2026

NFL: Houston Texans at Los Angeles Chargers

Dec 27, 2025; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Chargers linebacker Khalil Mack (52) takes the field prior to a game against the Houston Texans at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

Los Angeles Chargers pass rusher Khalil Mack is planning to play in 2026, eschewing retirement to test free agency, NFL Network reported Monday.

Mack, 35, is reportedly planning to "explore options" on the open market but could return to Los Angeles for another season.

A nine-time Pro Bowl selection, Mack has 113 career sacks in 179 games (177 starts) since being drafted by the Raiders with the No. 5 pick of the 2014 draft. He played in 12 games (11 starts) last season for the Chargers and was credited with 5.5 sacks.

Traded twice in 12 NFL seasons, Mack has never stayed with a team more than four seasons. He spent four years with the Raiders before being acquired by the Chicago Bears in 2018. He was traded to the Chargers in 2022.

Mack hit double figures in sacks just once since the 2018 season, recording 17 in 2023.

--Field Level Media

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