The Los Angeles Chargers received encouraging news on Wednesday as edge rusher Khalil Mack officially returned to practice, marking his first on-field participation since landing on injured reserve in Week 2 with an elbow injury.
Head coach Jim Harbaugh confirmed the update during his Wednesday 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 be a significant boost for a defense that has struggled to generate consistent pressure in recent weeks.
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While Mack’s progress is a bright spot, the Chargers remain shorthanded on the offensive line. Harbaugh said that left tackle Joe Alt (ankle) and right tackle Trey Pipkins (knee) will not practice this week, leaving quarterback Justin Herbert behind a patchwork unit once again.
“Joe Alt (ankle) and Trey Pipkins (knee) will not practice today,” Popper relayed from Harbaugh’s press conference.
Alt has missed two straight games with a high-ankle sprain, and his recovery timeline still appears uncertain. The rookie’s absence, combined with Pipkins’ injury and Rashawn Slater’s season-ending setback, has left the Chargers dangerously thin up front.
Last week, Los Angeles turned to Austin Deculus and Bobby Hart at tackle. The pair surrendered five pressures and two quarterback hits but managed to avoid giving up a sack.
What’s Next
With Mack trending toward a return and wide receiver Quentin Johnston also expected to practice, the Chargers could soon be healthier on both sides of the ball. However, Harbaugh emphasized that Mack’s activation will depend on how he responds throughout the practice week.
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