Following the Los Angeles Chargers’ devastating 32-12 loss to the Houston Texans in the Wild Card Round, linebacker Khalil Mack is considering retirement after an 11-year NFL career.

“Man, there are a lot of different thoughts going through my head right now,” Mack told reporters after the loss. “I can’t really come to a final decision on what I’m going to do yet because I don’t know if I’m going to play football in the future, so there are a few things I need to discuss with my wife. “Spend something Time with my kids and try not to make a hasty decision after a loss.”

In addition to the Chargers, Mack played for two other teams: the Chicago Bears and the then Oakland Raiders.

Mack recorded 20 solo tackles, six sacks and two forced fumbles during the 2024-25 season, helping the Chargers to an 11-6 record.

The Chargers’ postseason appearance began with high expectations but ended in disappointment as they suffered an incredible loss to the Texans, outscored 22-6 in the second half – a blow that hit Mack particularly hard.

“I can’t take ownership of this situation, man, even if you selfishly think, ‘Damn,’ you know what I mean? ‘That’s it,'” Mack said.

The 2016 Defensive Player of the Year has lost all five of his playoff appearances, making the decision to return even more difficult. Mack has expressed a desire to achieve team success in 12th grade, but plans to consult with his family, including his two young sons, ages 2 and 3, whose needs may take priority, according to ESPN’s Kris Rhim.

Mack hasn’t set a timetable for his decision, according to Rhim, but believes his best chance for team success lies with the Chargers.

“As long as Justin Herbert is your quarterback. “You got Derwin James and all these guys that love the game of football and Jim Harbaugh as a coach?” Mack told reporters. “You know you always have a chance to win. Yes, that’s a given.”

James fully supports Mack’s return and hopes he can lead the team to another playoff appearance at age 33.

“I told him we want him back, we need him back,” James said.