As the new Los Angeles Chargers franchise leaders, Joe Hortiz and Jim Harbaugh will have some tough decisions to make this offseason. That could even include cutting key playmakers on offense and defense, such as Khalil Mack.
Typically, teams who miss the playoffs don’t try and reduce the star talent from their roster, but the Chargers, who are actually currently $20 million OVER the 2024 spending limit, may not have a choice.
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Khalil Mack Trade Would Save Chargers A Ton Of Cap Space
While it’s not fun to think about the Los Angeles Chargers trading fan favorites like Khalil Mack, the NFL is a business, and the fact is, he makes a lot of money. Sure, he’s a great player, he’s reached the Pro Bowl both of his years in L.A., but again, he has a massive cap hit of $38.5 million in 2024. That’s crazy money.
“I know multiple teams I’ve spoken to have an eye on because he had the 17 sacks a year ago. Huge cap hit and [the Chargers] can save $20-plus million on their cap if they were to trade or move on. Maybe there’s a trade possibility for a team in need of a pass rusher and there will be many in that market around free agency.”
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler on Los Angeles Chargers’ potential Khalil Mack trade
As mentioned, cutting Mack offers $23.2 million in cap savings while leaving behind a dead cap charge of $15.2 million in 2024. For now, he has the largest cap number on the Chargers’ roster.
Having recently turned 33, it’s possible the Chargers deem Mack’s salary too large for their budget. Yet, if both Mack and the Chargers want to extend their partnership, it’s possible we see a contract restructure ending up as the ultimate solution for both sides.
