Getty Image / Winslow Townson
Despite being road favorites, things did not go to plan yesterday for Khalil Mack, Justin Herbert, and the Los Angeles Chargers in their AFC Wild Card Round playoff game against the Houston Texans. They were blown out, 32-12, despite controlling the game for most of the first half as Justin Herbert really struggled.
On Sunday, longtime NFL standout and current Charger Khalil Mack spoke to the media. He defended Justin Herbert and let the media know that he could be retiring from professional football.
Justin Herbert had a very good reguar season, throwing just three interceptions en route to 11 wins. But, there’s no sugarcoating his peformance on Saturday. Herbert was dreadful, completing just 14 of 32 passes for 242 yards with a touchdown and four interceptions. As bad as those stats were, he may have actually played worse. Herbert looked completely lost out there, and forced plenty of throws. While one of the interceptions wasn’t his fault and was a dropped pass, it was a really bad outing all-around.
If Khalil Mack’s attitude is indicative, the Chargers locker room still has faith in Justin Herbert.
Chargers OLB Khalil Mack on the criticism that QB Justin Herbert has received since yesterday’s loss, “man, who gives a fuck about what anyone has to say.”
He said he told Herbert on the plane last night, “you are going to be an all-time great.” pic.twitter.com/AgdOiEWIya
— Fernando Ramirez (@RealFRamirez) January 12, 2025
The future is bright for the Chargers, as they have plenty of young talent and this was only year-one for head coach Jim Harbaugh. But, they may be heading into the future without Khalil Mack. The former All-Pro is contemplating retirement.
Chargers OLB Khalil Mack said he is going to take sometime to make a decision on what he will do in 2025. He said he is going to evaluate if he wants to continue to play but said he doesn’t want to go out with an L. He is an unrestricted free agent. pic.twitter.com/lg1CghdeCt
— Fernando Ramirez (@RealFRamirez) January 12, 2025
That would be a big loss for the Chargers, though young pass-rusher Tuli Tuipuloto had a breakout season this year and would be poised to step in.
Star safety Derwin James would certainly like him back.
Chargers S Derwin James says he has already talked to OLB Khalil Mack to try to convince him to return next season. “We are headed in the right direction.” pic.twitter.com/SM33Dnx1Ui
— Fernando Ramirez (@RealFRamirez) January 12, 2025
It’s going to be an interesting offseason for the Los Angeles Chargers.