NFL

NFL News: Justin Herbert’s star teammate considers retirement ahead of free agency

A tough blow could be on the horizon for the Los Angeles Chargers, as a veteran defensive player is considering retiring from the NFL, which could hinder Justin Herbert’s big aspirations for the upcoming season.

Justin Herbert #10 of the Los Angeles Chargers runs off of the field after the game against the New England Patriots  at Gillette Stadium on December 28, 2024 in Foxborough, Massachusetts.
© Getty ImagesJustin Herbert #10 of the Los Angeles Chargers runs off of the field after the game against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium on December 28, 2024 in Foxborough, Massachusetts.

Justin Herbert took the Los Angeles Chargers as far as he could in the 2024 season. The playoffs marked the end of their run, but at least it was a winning season. Now, as the team enters the offseason, there is uncertainty surrounding the possible retirement of a veteran OLB who is unsure about returning for another season in the NFL.

The player in question, who might be contemplating retirement, is Khalil Mack. The defensive veteran helped Herbert and the Chargers reach the playoffs and have a strong regular season. He hasn’t formally announced his retirement yet, but he mentioned that he will discuss it with his family before making a final decision.

It’s worth noting that Mack’s contract with the Chargers runs through 2024. He finished a one-year deal worth $19.2 million, which is the second-largest of his career, following the $90 million he earned over six seasons with the Bears.

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Mack had a solid 2024 season, earning his third consecutive Pro Bowl selection and his ninth overall since 2015. It’s worth noting that he has been with the Chargers since 2022 after being traded from Chicago that year.

Khalil Mack #52 and Otito Ogbonnia #93 of the Los Angeles Chargers

Khalil Mack #52 and Otito Ogbonnia #93 of the Los Angeles Chargers celebrate in the second quarter against the Houston Texans during the AFC Wild Card Playoffs at NRG Stadium on January 11, 2025 in Houston, Texas.

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Khalil Mack’s Stats for the 2024 Season

This season, Mack started in all 16 games and earned a Pro Bowl nod, but it also marked his second-lowest season in terms of tackles, with a total of 39 combined tackles. This is a significant drop compared to 2023, when he recorded 74 tackles.

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Mack’s best week of the season came in the postseason against the Texans, where he posted 6 combined tackles. However, in the Chargers’ 17-19 loss to the Chiefs, he had his highest number of quarterback hits in a single game, with 4.

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