As Khalil Mack approaches the twilight of what’s already a Hall of Fame-worthy career, the veteran edge rusher is once again one of the most intriguing names set to hit the free-agent market this spring. And while several teams could make a compelling pitch, there’s growing buzz around a potential reunion with the Chicago Bears.
Mack, now 34, may not be the same game-wrecking force he was in his prime, but he’s far from finished. Just ask any offensive coordinator who had to scheme against him in 2025.
In 12 games with the Chargers, Mack racked up 5.5 sacks and a whopping 39 quarterback pressures - a reminder that even in Year 11, he’s still a problem off the edge. Add in an 80.6 run-defense grade from Pro Football Focus, and it’s clear Mack’s impact isn’t limited to just chasing quarterbacks.
He’s still setting the edge, still making life miserable for opposing tackles, and still bringing that veteran savvy every defense craves.
That’s exactly why the Bears make so much sense. Chicago’s pass rush showed flashes last season but lacked consistency and depth.
They don’t necessarily need to swing big in free agency, but they do need to get better - and Mack offers a cost-effective solution with built-in chemistry. From 2018 to 2021, Mack was the face of the Bears’ defense, earning All-Pro honors and establishing himself as one of the league’s premier disruptors.
A return to the Windy City wouldn’t just be a feel-good story - it’d be a smart football move.
But Chicago isn’t the only team that could make a run at Mack. The Bengals, Panthers, and Seahawks are all in the mix, each with their own motivations.
Cincinnati could be in the market for a replacement if Trey Hendrickson moves on. Mack wouldn’t be a one-for-one swap in terms of athleticism, but he’d bring leadership and production to a defense that’s been built to win now.
Carolina, on the other hand, is in need of reinforcements across the board defensively. For a team trying to stabilize under a new regime, Mack’s presence in the locker room could be just as valuable as his play on the field.
Then there’s Seattle - a team with cap space and a defense that’s already loaded with young talent. Adding Mack could be the kind of luxury signing that pushes them over the top, giving them another weapon in the pass-rush rotation and a mentor for their emerging stars.
Wherever he lands, one thing’s clear: Khalil Mack still has gas in the tank. He’s not just chasing one last payday - he’s chasing impact. Whether that’s back in Chicago or in a new uniform, expect him to bring it, just like he always has.