The Los Angeles Chargers avoided the worst with Khalil Mack’s injury, but they’ll still be without their star pass rusher for at least a month.
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo reported Wednesday that Mack is expected to miss a few weeks after suffering a dislocated elbow in Monday night’s 20-9 win over the Raiders. Head coach Jim Harbaugh confirmed that Mack will be placed on injured reserve, sidelining him for at least four games.
Mack, 34, was injured late in the first quarter while helping tackle Raiders receiver Tre Tucker. His arm bent awkwardly against teammate Troy Dye, and he immediately left for the locker room before returning to the sideline in a sling. He had already recorded his first sack of the season before the injury.
The loss is a significant blow to a Chargers defense that led the league in points allowed last season and has continued its strong play through two games. Mack has been a Pro Bowler every season since 2015 except for his injury-shortened 2021 campaign and has 31 sacks since joining Los Angeles. His career total now stands at 108.5.
In Mack’s absence, the Chargers will rely more heavily on Bud Dupree, Caleb Murphy, and Tuli Tuipulotu, who led the team with six QB pressures against Las Vegas. Mack will be eligible to return in Week 7 against the Colts.
