Los Angeles Chargers Bolster Defense By Trading For Khalil Mack

The Los Angeles Chargers countered to the Broncos big move, trading for superstar pass rusher Khalil Mack.

The Los Angeles Chargers have set off another domino in an arms race out in the AFC West. Just days after the Broncos traded for Russell Wilson, the Chargers make a major boost to the defensive side of the ball, acquiring superstar defensive end Khalil Mack from the Chicago Bears. The Chargers will give up a second round pick in 2022 and a sixth rounder in 2023 for Mack, and will pay all of his remaining salary, which is $63.9 million over three seasons.

The Chargers hiring of Brandon Staley last season was one that looked very good, as Staley was helping defenses adjust to explosive passing under the Vic Fangio tree. While the defense had pieces last year and draft a couple others, they lacked superstars outside of Joey Bosa and Derwin James. They also struggled to defend the run competently, which is absolutely necessary if they are going to have a two-high structure to defend explosive plays.

The other thing they lacked was another pass rusher to get after the quarterback, something that was likely in consideration for the 2022 NFL Draft, seeing as how deep that position is perceived to be. Now, one piece of the puzzle is complete with Mack set to rush on the edge opposite Bosa.

Having two defenders who can play on all three downs and affect said downs will help the run defense as it continues to build into a juggernaut. It’ll be impossible to double team both guys, and many likely forget how good Mack can be at his best.

The aggressiveness from the Los Angeles Chargers proves that they are ready to win now and contend with Justin Herbert running the show. With a couple more pieces on defense, this unit can contend with the Chiefs and Broncos and even snatch the division from them.