The Los Angeles Chargers received encouraging news on Wednesday as edge rusher Khalil Mack officially returned to practice for the first time since landing on injured reserve in Week 2 with an elbow injury. Head coach Jim Harbaugh confirmed the development during his press conference, noting that the team has opened Mack’s 21-day window to be activated to the 53-man roster.
“Chargers will be opening the activation window for Khalil Mack,” The Athletic’s Daniel Popper reported. “Mack will practice today in some capacity.”
Mack recorded one sack in the Week 2 win over the Raiders before being sidelined. His return would provide a major boost for a Chargers defense that has struggled to generate consistent pressure in recent weeks.
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Mack: “I’m Slightly Ready To Go” vs Colts
Is Jim Harbaugh The Real Life Ted Lasso?
Speaking with reporters on Thursday, Mack said he feels good enough to play vs the Colts but will leave the final decision to the medical and coaching staff.
“I’m slightly ready to go. I can’t give you percentage-wise, but it feel good. It don’t hurt at all,” Mack told ESPN’s Kris Rhim. “I’m going to let the coaches and trainers make that call, but I feel like I can go.”
Harbaugh echoed a cautious tone, emphasizing that the team will monitor Mack’s workload closely before making any activation decisions. The veteran’s return, even on a limited basis, could immediately change the complexion of Los Angeles’ front seven.
Offensive Line Still in Trouble
While Mack’s progress is a bright spot, the Chargers remain severely shorthanded on the offensive line. Harbaugh confirmed that left tackle Joe Alt (ankle) and right tackle Trey Pipkins (knee) will not practice this week, leaving Justin Herbert behind another patchwork group.
Alt has missed two straight games with a high-ankle sprain, and his recovery timeline remains uncertain. With Rashawn Slater out for the season, Los Angeles has leaned on Austin Deculus and Bobby Hart, who surrendered five pressures and two quarterback hits last week but managed to avoid allowing a sack.
What’s Next
If Mack continues trending upward, the Chargers could activate him in time for Sunday’s matchup against Jacksonville. Between his potential return and Quentin Johnston’s practice participation, Harbaugh’s group may finally be inching closer to full strength — just in time for a pivotal midseason stretch.
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