EL SEGUNDO — The Chargers opened the window Wednesday for outside linebacker Khalil Mack to return to the active roster from injured reserve, and it wasn’t out of the question that he could play Sunday against the Indianapolis Colts after sitting out the required four games because of a dislocated left elbow.
Mack, a nine-time Pro Bowl pick who resumed practicing, would be a huge addition to a defense that has surrendered 27 points in consecutive weeks. The Chargers rallied for a 29-27 victory over the Miami Dolphins on Sunday, one week after a 27-10 loss to the Washington Commanders.
The Chargers (4-2) have given up 20.8 points per game through the first six weeks of the season, ranking 13th in the 32-team NFL. They have given up 23.8 points per game over the past four games in Mack’s absence. Last season, they were the league’s stingiest team, giving up 17.7 points.
What’s more, the Chargers were pummeled on the ground in their last two games, giving up 128 yards and two touchdowns on 16 carries by Dolphins running back De’Von Achane and 111 yards and two touchdowns on 14 carries by the Commanders’ Jacory Croskey-Merritt.
In addition to his well-earned reputation as one of the game’s elite pass rushers, Mack also would aid the Chargers’ defense against the run when he’s able to play again. If he can’t play against the Colts, it would be more likely for him to return Oct. 23 against the Minnesota Vikings.
Bud Dupree has replaced Mack during Mack’s layoff, teaming with Tuli Tuipulotu as the Chargers’ edge rushers.
Mack has been missed in other ways, too.
“Coolest guy on the team,” Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh said.
In what ways?
“Just the non-mandatory things that guys are able to do, he does the most, and some things people think aren’t cool, he does,” Harbaugh said, trying to put into words the way Mack leads by example by going the extra mile. “If it’s the coolest guys doing something, then everyone else thinks it’s cool.
“It’s pretty cool to watch other people do what he does and try to understand that if it works for Khalil then it’s a good chance it’ll work for them.”
Mack, 34, was injured during the Chargers’ Sept. 15 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders, when he collided with teammate Troy Dye while attempting to make a tackle. Within days of being placed on injured reserve, he was back in the weight room and on the field encouraging his teammates.
Additionally, Mack has worn a headset on the sideline during recent games, staying in tune with the play calls from Jesse Minter, the Chargers’ defensive coordinator, and perhaps the calls from offensive coordinator Greg Roman. Mack hasn’t been a passive bystander during his layoff.
“He’s engaged,” Harbaugh said. “Maybe it was the first practice after he got hurt and he’s doing a workout and he finishes his workout and he walks out (onto the practice field) behind the play and he’s talking to the defensive guys, talking to the edge (rushers) and coaching up guys on the offensive line. I look at Khalil Mack. Football player. The highest compliment anyone can give you.”
EXTRA POINTS
Cameron Dicker was named the AFC’s Special Teams Player of the Week after kicking a career-high five goals Sunday, including the 33-yard game-winner with five seconds left against the Dolphins. …
Left tackle Joe Alt, who has a sprained right ankle, worked out on the sideline under the watchful eye of an athletic trainer. …
Safety Derwin James Jr. underwent an X-ray on his wrist after Sunday’s game, which was negative, according to Harbaugh. James joined his teammates for practice. …
Right tackle Trey Pipkins III sat out of practice because of a knee injury that sidelined him for Sunday’s game.