Another one of Los Angeles’ Big Four dominoes has fallen.
After the Chargers released Mike Williams on Monday, ESPN’s Adam Schefter announced that edge rusher Khalil Mack would remain in Los Angeles for the 2024 season.
Schefter also reported that Mack would restructure his existing contract to free up salary cap space for LA, likely clearing the way for them to process the re-signing of safety Alohi Gilman and signings of running back Gus Edwards and tight end Will Dissly.
It’s unclear whether Mack, who has one season remaining on his deal, is adding void years to his contract or signing an extension to clear the space. Contracts with one year remaining cannot be restructured without adding void years.
A former Defensive Player of the Year, Mack set a new career best with 17 sacks in 2023 for the Chargers. His return is also valuable for the mentorship of 2023 second-round pick Tuli Tuipulotu. The eight-time Pro Bowler has 101.5 career sacks, 58th in NFL history.
Clearing cap space from Mack’s contract and releasing Williams allows the Chargers to at least delay, if not ignore, decisions regarding wide receiver Keenan Allen and edge rusher Joey Bosa. Bosa is due a roster bonus on Friday, with many around the league expecting him to become available either by trade or release before that bonus is paid. Allen, while a rumored trade target, has been expected to sign a contract extension to lower his 2024 cap hit.
Any further space the Chargers create, however, serves as operational funds for the draft and remainder of free agency with the Mack and Williams moves. And, most importantly: Khalil Mack is still a Charger.