Khalil Mack injury: What to know about the Chargers star’s elbow issue
Los Angeles Chargers’ LB Khalil Mack. Image Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images/File Photo
The Los Angeles Chargers celebrated a 20-9 win over the Las Vegas Raiders on Monday Night Football, but the night was overshadowed by a serious setback. Veteran pass rusher Khalil Mack was forced to leave the game in the first quarter with a painful elbow injury that left teammates and fans deeply concerned.
When Did Khalil Mack Suffer His Elbow Injury?
The injury occurred late in the first quarter when Mack attempted a tackle. His hand was caught between teammate Troy Dye and Raiders receiver Tre Tucker, forcing his elbow into an awkward position.
Mack immediately clutched his arm, jogged toward the sideline, and then bent over in visible pain before heading straight to the locker room.
He briefly reappeared in the second quarter on the sideline, his arm in a sling and heavily wrapped, before being officially ruled out for the game.
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Chargers’ Update on Mack’s Condition
Head coach Jim Harbaugh confirmed after the game that Mack would undergo imaging tests to determine the extent of the injury. However, no official timeline has been given for his return.
“Mack is set for more tests, and we’ll see where that takes us,” Harbaugh said.
How Will Mack’s Injury Affect the Chargers’ Defense?
The 33-year-old linebacker entered the season as the cornerstone of the Chargers’ pass rush, especially following the team’s offseason split with Joey Bosa.
Mack had already recorded one sack and one tackle before leaving the game, underscoring his continued importance to the defense. He also boasts 12.5 sacks against the Raiders since 2021, the most by any player versus a single opponent in that span.
Without him, Los Angeles faces a steep challenge in maintaining pressure on opposing quarterbacks, and defensive rotations will likely lean heavily on younger, less proven players.
What Comes Next for Khalil Mack?
The Chargers will await medical results this week to determine if Mack faces a short-term absence or a more extended recovery. His availability could significantly impact the Chargers’ upcoming matchups, including a critical divisional clash with the Kansas City Chiefs.
For now, the All-Pro defender remains week-to-week, and the Chargers’ postseason hopes may hinge on how quickly he can return.
