The Los Angeles Chargers must face the truth. As much as fans want to see both Odafe Oweh and Khalil Mack back in 2026, both players' free agencies pose a major issue.
With the needs they have on the interior of the offensive line, it will not be an easy task for both players to return. Oweh is projected to earn a contract somewhere in the four-year, $77 million range. Given his performance in 2025, bringing him back to play across from Tuli Tuipulotu must be a priority. But he will have a number of suitors in free agency.
Mack, meanwhile, is somewhat on the decline. He posted 5.5 sacks, 32 combined tackles, and six tackles for loss through 12 games this season. If the Chargers want to bring him back as a third edge rusher, he could help create a lethal pass rush in 2026.
But there's always the reality that he could opt for retirement this offseason instead of returning for a 13th season in the NFL.
Therefore, Los Angeles must be prepared for the departure of either Oweh or Mack this offseason. The New England Patriots' collapse in the Super Bowl could provide the perfect replacement in K'Lavon Chaisson.
Chargers have a clear free agent target if Khalil Mack doesn't return for 2026
As fans are well aware, the Patriots were ahead of schedule in 2025. They scrapped their way through three playoff victories, relying on the strength of their defense to make up for any deficits they had on offense.
Against the Seattle Seahawks, this caught up to them. They allowed six sacks, with pressure coming primarily from the left side of the offensive line held down by Will Campbell and Jared Wilson. They gave up three turnovers on the night, scoring just 13 points against an absolutely lethal Seattle defense.
Heading into the offseason, they will need to address their needs on offense before they attempt to re-assemble their defense.
Chaisson was part of an excellent New England free agent class in 2025. Through 16 games, he posted 7.5 sacks, 31 tackles, and 10 tackles for loss. Spotrac has him projected to earn roughly $9 million annually on his next deal.
Compared to the $18 million Mack could earn, Chaisson's number would be far preferable.
The Patriots have roughly $35 million in cap space to play with this offseason. But if bringing Chaisson back doesn't prove to be a priority, his experience in a 3-4 defensive scheme could make him a perfect fit in Los Angeles alongside Oweh and Tuipulotu.