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5 Chargers Making Their Final Playoff Run With L.A. in 2025

By Richard Louis

Sep 15, 2024; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Los Angeles Chargers tight end Hayden Hurst (88) after the game at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images
Sep 15, 2024; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Los Angeles Chargers tight end Hayden Hurst (88) after the game at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images / Bob Donnan-Imagn Images
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4. Khalil Mack, LB

Linebacker Khalil Mack has been in Los Angeles for the past three years. He came over via trade and has been one of the best defenders on the field.

Over the past three seasons with the Chargers, Mack has logged 162 total tackles, 39 TFLs, 49 QB hits, and 31 sacks (prior to Week 18). The University at Buffalo standout's career in Los Angeles was in serious jeopardy at the beginning of the year but he took a pay cut. His salary was reduced from $23.25 million to $19 million.

Even though he took that pay cut, Mack was still a productive player for the Chargers. Entering Week 18, he had 38 total tackles, nine pass deflections, and six sacks. According to PFF, Mack posted a 90.5 overall grade (5th among 205 eligible EDGE defenders) and an 88.1 run-defense grade (3rd among 205 eligible EDGE defenders) entering the season finale.

While those are great numbers, there is a high likelihood that he won't return to Los Angeles. He'll be 34 years old by the time the 2025 season kicks off and they may not want to shelve massive money to a player that age.

The Chargers will take what Mack does in the postseason and probably part ways this offseason.

5. J.K. Dobbins, RB

Running back J.K. Dobbins was one of the best free-agent signings for Los Angeles this offseason. He signed a one-year, $1.61 million with the Chargers and has been very productive for this team.

Entering Week 18, Dobbins led the team in rushing yards (842) and rushing touchdowns (9) with 43 carries for a first down. While the Ohio State product has been a good weapon in the Chargers offense, the reason they were able to bring him in on the price tag is that he was coming back from a torn Achilles.

Since coming into the league, Dobbins has suffered a torn ACL, LCL, and meniscus. Those are all significant injuries and he'll look to cash in this offseason.

His price tag may be too rich for Los Angeles. Teams find quality, low-cost running backs in both free agency and the NFL Draft each year. The Chargers could seek that same approach again this offseason and let Dobbins walk.

They also have Gus Edwards signed through next year and could pair him with another tailback. Players look to capitalize when they touch free agency and after a career year, Dobbins will look to cash in.

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