The future Hall of Famer Khalil Mack, and the cornerstone of the Los Angeles Chargers defense, is at a pivotal crossroads in his storied NFL career. As the 11-year veteran contemplates retirement or a return for Year 12, his decision looms large over the team’s offseason plans.
“It’s a lot of different thoughts in my head right now,” Mack admitted after the Chargers’ playoff loss. “I can’t really speak on a definitive decision in terms of what I’m going to do because I don’t know if I’m going to play football going forward.”
Mack’s career accomplishments speak for themselves. With 107.5 career sacks—ranking fifth among active players in 2024—and a reputation as an elite competitor, Mack remains a force on the field. This season, he tallied six sacks and continued to anchor a defense featuring stars like Derwin James and Joey Bosa. Despite this, the 33-year-old is weighing his future carefully, prioritizing discussions with his family and taking time to process his options.
“This is my first time in this position,” Mack said about entering free agency. “You just got to approach it with prayer and patience.”
Will Khalil Mack return to the Chargers in 2025?

Chargers leadership, including head coach Jim Harbaugh and general manager Joe Hortiz, is eager for Mack to stay in Los Angeles. Harbaugh quipped that he’s joining Derwin James in recruiting Mack to return.
“I love Khalil,” Hortiz said. “It’s rare to get a guy of his ability and the person that he is. He’s a special, special person to be around, and I hope we can continue to be around him.”
For Mack, the allure of returning to a team with stars like Justin Herbert and James is evident. “As long as Justin Herbert is your quarterback and you’ve got Derwin James and all these guys that love the game of football… you always have a chance to win,” Mack said.
The veteran pass rusher is also driven by the desire to change his postseason narrative. Mack has yet to win a playoff game, holding an 0-5 postseason record. “I also don’t want to go out with an ‘L,’ just based on who I am as a competitor,” he noted. “Definitely want to make that push and play some important games in the playoffs.”
Teammates like James and Tuli Tuipulotu have expressed their hope that Mack returns but respect his need for reflection. “I definitely told him I wanted him to come back,” James said. “We feel like we’re heading in the right direction.”
Whether Mack chooses to retire, sign with another team, or rejoin the Chargers, one thing is certain: his decision will have a significant impact on the trajectory of the Chargers’ defense and the NFL as a whole.