Khalil Mack has agreed to a one-year, fully guaranteed $18 million contract to return to the Los Angeles Chargers, the team announced via ESPN. The nine-time Pro Bowl pass rusher, a cornerstone of L. A.'s defense, missed four games in 2025 due to an elbow injury that limited him to just 5.5 sacks – his lowest total since 2014.

When healthy, Mack was instrumental in transforming the Chargers' run defense, as evidenced by their improved performance after his return from injury in Week 7. The Chargers allowed 1,046 rushing yards from that point through Week 18 – the fourth-fewest in the league – compared to 579 yards allowed during his absence. Mack's return solidifies the Bolts' defensive core alongside re-signed teammate Teair Tart, but the team still needs to secure outside linebacker Odafe Oweh and left guard Zion Johnson.

Mack, now 32, remains winless in six playoff games and is seeking his first Super Bowl appearance after consecutive wild-card round losses to New England. His 113 career sacks place him seventh among active players, underscoring his enduring impact despite recent injury struggles.