Top potential trade spots for Khalil Mack in 2024

The Los Angeles Chargers’ star edge-rusher Khalil Mack is a potential trade target for multiple teams according to multiple reports.

The former defensive player of the year arrived in LA several seasons ago after a blockbuster trade from the Chicago Bears, however the Chargers have failed to make it past the Wildcard round back in 2023 and had no other runs in the Playoffs. 

Mack is coming off the back of his best season where he had a career-high 17 sacks,74 tackles (21 for loss), 10 passes defensed but the Chargers finished the season at the bottom of the AFC West with a 5-12 record and fired Head Coach Brandon Staley and their General Manager Tom Telesco a couple of weeks before the conclusion of the regular season.

The Chargers new Head Coach Jim Harbaugh will look to revitalise the team on both ends of the ball. This approach will involve shedding veteran talent like Mack to acquire draft picks and younger players who can contribute to the team’s long-term vision bulit around quarterback Justin Herbert.

While rebuilding the team will be a priority, making cap space will be too. That’s where Mack comes in. Even though he is one of the premier defensive players and under contract through next-season, his contract might be too hefty for the Chargers, who are near the bottom of the list with -$35 million cap space for 2024. The Chargers can save $20-plus million on their cap if they trade or move on from Mack. Trading him can give them $23.5 million in needed cap relief compared to eating $15.267 million in dead money.

Teams looking to bolster their defence, especially in terms of pass rush, would significantly benefit from acquiring Mack. Potential landing spots could include teams on the cusp of playoff contention, seeking an elite defensive player to elevate their defence. Teams with the necessary cap space and a need for a game-changing pass rusher would be ideal candidates. 

Here are three potential landing spots for the eight-time Pro Bowler and what impact he could bring to each team and how flexible the move is.

Detroit Lions

A team that would tremendously improve with Mack’s services would be the runner-ups of the NFC. The Lions are coming off the back of letting go of a 17-0 lead in the NFC Championship game, where their defence couldn’t stop the San Francisco 49ers from scoring. Dispute that the Lions have made significant strides on offence, but their defence, particularly the linebacker position, remains a concern.

Players like Malcolm Rodriguez and Alex Anzalone have struggled, highlighting the need for an upgrade. Adding Khalil Mack could provide a substantial boost, bringing a proven pass-rusher and defensive leader to the team. With Mack’s impressive track record, including a career-high 17 sacks in the 2023 season, his immediate impact would be undeniable. 

Financially, the Detroit Lions are well-positioned, boasting a healthy cap space of $57,614,821. This flexibility allows them to absorb Mack’s contract while addressing other roster needs effectively.

Acquiring Mack could transform the Lions’ defence, not only improving the pass rush but also elevating the performance of those around him. His experience and leadership would be invaluable for a young team seeking competitiveness. Additionally, Mack’s ability to disrupt opposing offences would be crucial in a division with potent offensive teams.

While the Lions have focused on building through the draft, targeting defensive prospects, adding a veteran like Mack could complement this strategy. His immediate production and mentorship to younger players would enhance the team’s development. General Manager Brad Holmes has shown a willingness to make bold moves, and trading for Mack aligns with this proactive approach.

Los Angeles Rams

Staying in SoFi Stadium could be an option…but instead to play for the Rams. The Rams’ defence has been in a state of flux, particularly struggling to generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Despite a rotation of players, none have solidified the role opposite Leonard Floyd as a consistent threat. Khalil Mack’s proven ability as an elite pass rusher, could provide the Rams with the edge presence they desperately need. His addition would not only bolster the pass rush but also alleviate pressure on the secondary, indirectly addressing another area of need.

Known for their aggressive approach to talent acquisition, the Rams have often pushed the boundaries of their salary cap to field a competitive team. While facing cap constraints in 2024, they have shown creativity in managing their finances to accommodate star players. Acquiring Mack, despite his significant salary, would require careful cap management, potentially involving restructuring contracts or making other roster moves. However, the Rams’ front office has demonstrated both willingness and capability to navigate such challenges.

Mack’s potential presence on the Rams’ defence could be transformative. Pairing him with Aaron Donald would create one of the most formidable defensive line duos in the NFL, significantly enhancing the Rams’ ability to disrupt opposing offences. Beyond his on-field impact, Mack’s leadership and experience would be invaluable for a defence striving to return to the top of the league. His work ethic and competitive nature could set a tone for the entire unit, elevating the play of those around him.

The Rams have a history of making bold moves to acquire veteran talent, prioritising immediate impact over long-term considerations. A trade for Mack would align perfectly with this strategy, signalling a commitment to contending in the near term. Given their recent Super Bowl victory and subsequent playoff appearances, the Rams operate with a win-now mentality, making Mack an ideal fit for their ambitious goals.

Green Bay Packers

The former Bears’ man could possibly don the yellow and green With multiple second-round draft picks, the Packers have the assets that could be attractive to the Chargers in a trade for Mack and to potentially facilitate a trade without sacrificing their long-term future

The Packers’ defence has evident gaps, particularly at off-ball linebacker and safety positions. While Mack is primarily known as an edge rusher, his presence could indirectly fortify these areas by enhancing the overall pass rush. This would enable linebackers and safeties to operate more effectively in space, unburdened by immediate pass rush pressure. Mack’s dual ability to pressure the quarterback and defend against the run would greatly bolster the Packers’ defence, making it more resilient and adaptable.

Known for their astute financial management, the Packers possess a salary cap situation that could potentially accommodate Mack’s contract. With an adjusted salary cap of $264,125,004 and available cap space of $12,454,745 (with the top 51 contracts), the Packers have some flexibility. However, additional moves may be necessary to create enough cap space to comfortably absorb Mack’s salary.

The addition of Khalil Mack to the Packers would not only address a critical defensive need but also inject a veteran presence into the locker room. His leadership and experience would prove invaluable, especially for a team undergoing significant changes, including transitions at the quarterback position. Mack’s exemplary work ethic and competitive nature would set a high standard for the team.

Historically, the Packers have relied on drafting talent but have also been open to strategic veteran acquisitions when opportunities arise. Mack’s potential availability presents such an opportunity.