Is Mack washed up?
By: Jake Rajala
The former first-round pick from the Raiders Khalil Mack is well regarded as a first-ballot Hall of Famer. From getting five sacks in a game to unleashing double-digit sacks often, Mack deserves the praise. However, father time catches up to everyone. With that said, I’m going to untwine whether the former Raider, Bear, and Charger is washed up yet.
Here is a closer look at the few key categories that define a defender.
2024
- six sacks
- six tackles for loss
- 10 pass deflections
2023
- 17 sacks
- 21 tackles for loss
- 10 pass deflections
Let’s not forget about the mighty PFF grade scale last season: 90.4!
When it comes to rushing the QB, Mack wasn’t sexy. However, he could be an elite run stopper and impressive at reading opponent’s offenses.
It isn’t very rare to see a dip like this when it comes to rushing the passer. The Saints future Hall of Fame defender Cam Jordan also fell off a cliff recently.
Jordan went from recording 8.5 sacks, 13 TFLs, and 13 QB hits in 2022 to unveiling two sacks, three TFLs, and six QB hits in 2023.
Mack recently re-signed with the Chargers this off-season. He said it was about “winning” and not about the money. Obviously, he feels that the Chargers have something brewing in LA. The Chargers should be thankful that Mack wants to stay after Joey Bosa fled to the Buffalo Bills.
The Los Angeles Chargers ranked seventh in sacks last season. This number isn’t a concern, as Mack only recorded six sacks, yet they still were a Top-10 team in sacks.
Tuli Tuipulotu is a young figure who can be a Pro Bowler for them. He recorded 8.5 sacks and 42 tackles. PFF mentioned Tuli as one of their breakout team choices.
In the end, Mack isn’t washed up. He’s bounced back in the sack category after a down-sack season. He can also not have the best chances at getting to the QB, as he will be double and triple-teamed! I expect him to make another Pro Bowl and finish his career on a high note.
Leave a Reply