Khalil Mack Re-signs with Chargers on $18 Million Deal Ahead of Free Agency

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Veteran linebacker Khalil Mack has re-signed with the Los Angeles Chargers on a fully guaranteed one-year contract worth $18 million, just hours before the official start of NFL free agency. The announcement was reported by NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport and confirmed by the team.

The 34-year-old Mack had a productive 2024 season, recording 39 combined tackles, six sacks, and nine passes defended over 16 games. In 2023, he achieved a career-high 17 sacks, further solidifying his status as one of the league’s elite pass rushers. Mack’s latest contract places him as the No. 15 highest-paid pass rusher ahead of the free agency period.

“We are thrilled to have Khalil back with us for another season,” said Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh. “His experience and talent are invaluable to our defense and the team as a whole.”

Mack’s return is particularly crucial for the Chargers, who have been evaluating their edge rusher position after releasing fellow pass rusher Joey Bosa. The team recognized the need for stability in their defense, especially as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Originally drafted by the Oakland Raiders as the No. 5 overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft, Mack has had a storied career. During his time, he has garnered three Pro Bowl selections and was named the NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 2016. Over his 12-year career, Mack has amassed a total of 107.5 sacks, ranking 45th all-time since 1960.

After joining the Chargers in March 2022, Mack forged a notable partnership with Bosa. The duo aimed to provide a formidable pass-rushing threat, yet their tenure together had its ups and downs. Although they reached the playoffs as a wild-card team, their season ended in disappointment with a crushing defeat against the Houston Texans.

The Chargers are expected to continue strengthening their defensive lineup, with the legal tampering period for free agency set to begin. Teams around the league will be adjusting their strategies in light of Mack’s decision to remain in Los Angeles, forcing potential competitors to rethink their plans in the race for defensive talent.

“It came down to comfort and the opportunity to continue working with the coaching staff and my teammates,” Mack said. “I believe we can achieve great things here in L.A. and I want to be part of it.”

As the team looks to build on their playoff appearance, Mack’s re-signing offers a critical piece in their quest for a championship. The Chargers are eager to see how much more Mack can contribute in the final stretch of his career, especially under the leadership of new head coach Jim Harbaugh.