The Chargers re-signed Khalil Mack and are targeting David Njoku in a trade on June 12, 2025. See how L.A. is arming Justin Herbert for a Super Bowl run.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
Just when the offseason buzz began to quiet down, the Los Angeles Chargers sent a shockwave through the NFL on Thursday. Not only did star edge rusher Khalil Mack officially re-sign, declaring his intent to finish the job in L.A., but reports surfaced linking the team to a blockbuster trade for Browns tight end David Njoku. The message from the front office is loud and clear: they are arming Justin Herbert for a legitimate Super Bowl run.
I want to be part of something special here in L.A. and help this team get over the hump.
Khalil Mack is back, and it's not about the money or chasing a ring on a new team. 'I want to be part of something special here in L.A.,' Mack told ESPN, emphasizing his respect for the organization. His return is a massive boost for a defense looking to build on last season's success. Defensive Coordinator Jesse Minter couldn't hide his excitement during minicamp, calling Mack's presence a cornerstone for the entire unit. Minter also pointed to new additions like Da'Shawn Hand and Donte Jackson as key pieces that will elevate the defense's intensity and versatility.
The day's biggest surprise came from reports connecting the Chargers and Browns in a potential trade for tight end David Njoku. This move would instantly solve one of the offense's most glaring weaknesses from last season. Njoku's size, speed, and proven production would give Justin Herbert a dynamic, middle-of-the-field threat he's desperately needed. While talks are still developing, the prospect of adding a Pro Bowl-caliber tight end has the fanbase buzzing about the offense's explosive potential.
All these moves point to one person: Justin Herbert. After two playoff appearances that ended in the Wild Card round, the pressure is on #10 to lead the team on a deep postseason run. Despite an 11-6 record last year, the team's struggles in big moments were telling—they went 0-4 as underdogs and 0-2 in games decided by a field goal or less. Vegas has noticed, setting the Chargers' 2025 win total at 9.5, the lowest in the AFC West. Herbert is determined to silence the critics and prove he can conquer the playoff curse.
While Mack's return grabs headlines, DC Jesse Minter is focused on building depth across the board. He's been particularly impressed with linebacker Daiyan Henley, pegging him as a potential breakout star this season thanks to his offseason conditioning and preparation. However, the depth is already being tested. The latest injury report lists CB Eric Rogers (undisclosed) and OG Branson Taylor (knee) as sidelined, while Ja'Sir Taylor (ribs) and Elijah Molden (knee) are questionable for the Week 1 showdown against Kansas City, putting a spotlight on the team's health early on.
The Chargers are making it clear: 'good enough' is no longer the standard. With a motivated superstar back on defense and a potential game-changing weapon on the way for the offense, the pressure now squarely falls on Justin Herbert to elevate his game in the postseason. The front office has made its moves; now the Bolts have to prove the doubters, and the Vegas odds, wrong.
