The NFL Trade Deadline isn’t until November 10th, but rumors are already swirling around. Teams are looking for a boost to make a playoff push sooner rather than later. The 2026 Bears are no different, as they need defensive help. Some teams are listening to offers to gain more future draft picks. One prime example is the 0-5 Los Angeles Chargers. Many believe they could be listening to trade offers for a few players, including 35-year-old pass rusher Khalil Mack.
Mack has had a legendary career so far, but the veteran pass rusher still has some gas left in the tank. He has three sacks and 15 total tackles this season. It is not the same level he has produced in his prime, but it is far from bad. Ideally, the 2016 Defensive Player of the Year would be a strong rotational piece. The Chargers' 35-year-old pass rusher has experience leading teams and could be a valuable mentor. The price shouldn’t be high, as he is a half-season rental. The initial rumors sound like it could cost a mid-round draft pick. All of this makes the former first-round pick an intriguing trade option.
The connection to the Chicago Bears is clear. The Chargers' 35-year-old pass rusher was a major piece in the Bears' defense for four seasons, including the 2018 playoff appearance. Chicago needs help on the defensive line. Dayo Odeyingbo is dealing with a quad injury, and Montez Sweat is suspended for two games. Even when they are both on the field, the results have been solid, but not great. The pass rush unit has told a similar story. They can get some pressure, but usually not enough to affect the pass game. Austin Booker has looked promising, but they can’t just count on one developing talent.
Chicago's defense has had an up-and-down season. At times, they have controlled the game. However, the secondary has also been picked apart. It looks like they are getting some help there, as Kyler Gordon is nearing his season debut. While this should help, the Bears still need reinforcements. A reunion with Mack could help. If the Chargers' 35-year-old pass rusher can help provide splash plays, the secondary won’t have to hold up as long. They still need to improve, but a better pass rush should help.
Mack may not be the same player he used to be, but he's still a quality rotational piece. Chicago has a lot of talent, but needs a few more pieces on defense. In a best-case scenario, the Chargers' 35-year-old pass rusher would return to Chicago soon to help patch the current issues. However, the Chargers may take time to evaluate offers. If the Bears wish to return to the playoffs, they need to improve their defense; Mack could do just that.
