Why Chicago Bears, Los Angeles Chargers couldn’t complete Khalil Mack trade

Prior to the trade deadline, Khalil Mack getting traded to the Chicago Bears was a widely speculated prediction. However, the Los Angeles Chargers decided to hold onto the veteran pass rusher.

Mack is set to be a free agent after the season. With the Chargers at 0-8, conventional wisdom points to trading away a player in that position. Los Angeles took that approach with linebacker Daiyan Henley, who was dealt to the Denver Broncos.

On the Bears side, pass rush still remains a need even with Jeffery Simmons now in the mix. Furthermore, Mack has history with Chicago, being named to three Pro Bowls over his four seasons with the franchise. The Bears are chasing a Super Bowl while the Chargers are in line for the No. 1 overall pick, making the trade winds even breezier.

Ultimately though, Mack returning to Chicago remains a pipe dream. He will remain a veteran leader for Los Angeles at least through the end of 2026.

Los Angeles Chargers nix Chicago Bears, Khalil Mack trade 

The Chargers are now risking Mack leaving their franchise for nothing. But in an 0-8 season, they still wanted to have as strong of morale as possible in the locker room. Mack is a key piece of Los Angeles’ foundation. The Chargers weren’t willing to fracture that, via Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network.

“The Chargers never wanted to deal Khalil Mack. They never got close to dealing Khalil Mack,” Rapoport said. “They wanted him in their locker room, they wanted him to help teach some of the young pass rushers. They want a good culture and he is a great guy and leader.”

From The Insiders @nflnetwork: A look at a trade that didn’t happen but could’ve — Khalil Mack to the #Bears. pic.twitter.com/uppJQofSMY

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 11, 2026

Outside of just nostalgia, Mack’s return to the Bears would’ve given the defense a sizable boost. Through eight games in 2026, the pass rusher has put up 22 tackles, six quarterback hits and three sacks. His 70.9 grade from Pro Football Focus ranks 31/110 edge rushers. Furthermore, if Mack had been playing for Chicago, he would second on the team in QB hits and tied for third in sacks; not including Jeffery Simmons stats pre-trade.

With Mack set to be a free agent after the season, perhaps the Bears decide to make a move then. But the pass rusher will first finish out his 2026 campaign with the Chargers.

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