Khalil Mack Considers Retirement After Chargers' Playoff Loss

The nine-time Pro Bowl linebacker, now a free agent, reflects on his future following an 11-year NFL career and another postseason defeat.

Khalil Mack, 33, is contemplating retirement after the Chargers' 32-12 wild-card playoff loss to the Houston Texans, marking his fifth career playoff defeat without a win.
Mack, a three-time All-Pro and 2016 Defensive Player of the Year, has had a decorated career with 107.5 sacks and nine Pro Bowl selections over 11 seasons with the Raiders, Bears, and Chargers.
He cited the mental strain of football and the desire to spend more time with his family, including his two young sons, as key factors in his decision-making process.
Mack remains undecided on his future, emphasizing the need to avoid a rushed decision and expressing a desire to compete for a championship if he continues to play.
The Chargers, who improved to 11-6 under first-year head coach Jim Harbaugh, are hopeful Mack will return, with teammates and coaches advocating for his continued presence on the team.