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Jim Harbaugh, Chargers Predicted to Lose Team Captain to Eagles

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nate Lunak | Last updated Mar 4, 2026 3:24 PM ET

For the second straight season, Jim Harbaugh led the Los Angeles Chargers to an 11-6 record and second-place finish in the AFC West. Unfortunately, just like 2024, they failed to win in the wild-card round, this time falling to the New England Patriots.

However, this marks the first time the Chargers have achieved back-to-back double-digit win seasons since 2006 and 2007. While Harbaugh continues to work toward a Super Bowl win, he and the front office are facing several challenges.

Los Angeles has an extensive list of pending free agents, which includes EDGE Khalil Mack. The pass rusher has made previous stops with the Las Vegas Raiders and Chicago Bears, but has been with the Chargers for the past four years.

Los Angeles Chargers EDGE Khalil Mack.Kyle Terada-Imagn Images

He's been an integral piece to Harbaugh's defense, and in 2025, served as one of the team's six season-long captains. In 12 games, Mack accumulated 32 tackles, six tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks, four forced fumbles and 23 pressures.

At 35 years old, his plans to return for a 13th NFL season have already been confirmed. However, USA Today's Jacob Camenker predicts Mack won't be back with the Chargers, instead signing with the Philadelphia Eagles.

"This just feels like a Howie Roseman move, doesn't it?" Camenker wrote. "The Eagles may not have the money needed to both retain Jaelan Phillips and extend Jalen Carter, so targeting a proven replacement on a short-term deal to replace the former would make sense."

Last season, the Eagles ranked 10th in pressures (149) and were tied for 12th in sacks (42). Mack, who is projected to sign a one-year, $18.4 million contract, according to Spotrac, could give Philadelphia's pass rush a considerable boost.

Meanwhile, it would leave the Chargers likely looking for a replacement once free agency officially begins on March 11.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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