The LA Chargers' defense has taken a massive step backward this season and Khalil Mack isn't interested in hearing any excuses.
Mack returned to action in Week 7 against the Indianapolis Colts in a limited capacity. Mack played just 12 snaps as he returned far quicker than anyone expected after a scary arm injury in Week 2 against the Las Vegas Raiders. The veteran edge rusher likely wishes he played more snaps, as the Chargers' defense was completely outmatched.
The Chargers have gone from the No. 1 scoring defense in the sport to No. 18. They've allowed seven rushing touchdowns to starting running backs the last three weeks. Jesse Minter's squad has been a shell of itself, and Mack is sick of just talking about it. After the ugly loss to the Colts, Mack made it clear he wants the team to stop talking about its defensive struggles and actually do something about it.
Khalil Mack: "It put a bad taste in everybody's mouth, so you got that sense of how bad we want this next one. ...At times like this, it takes more than just talk. It takes a little more action. Just want to see a lot more action-based things at this pivotal time of the season."
— Daniel Popper (@danielrpopper) October 21, 2025
Khalik Mack wants more "action-based things" from the Chargers
It's time to stop talking and go to work. Mack knows this, and it's time the rest of the Chargers take note and follow suit.
It's unclear what exactly Mack means by action-based things. Does he want his teammates and coaches to take more accountability? Does he think certain players on the roster need to be benched? Does he want a wholesale defensive change that aligns to the team's strengths?
It's impossible to know what exactly Mack means but it's clear he has something on his mind. This isn't a veteran who is just frustrated with how the team is playing. This is a veteran whose NFL clock is ticking toward midnight who doesn't want to see the team drag its feet.
Mack is certainly going to do his part in improving the defense moving forward. After playing on a snap count in Week 7, Mack was pretty clear that he wants to be a full go on Thursday against the Minnesota Vikings.
"I know what I'm planning on doing," Mack said, via Daniel Popper. "Hopefully everyone's in agreeance."
Mack definitely seems peeved about how the Chargers are playing on defense, and for good reason. Los Angeles has been downright awful on the defensive end and everyone on that side of the ball should be upset by it. Anyone who isn't upset shouldn't be on the team.
Hopefully, the Chargers can not only right the ship but fulfill Mack's demands to do something about the poor play. The last thing the Chargers need is an upset Mack, especially considering he can leave the team to retire elsewhere after the 2025 season.