New NFL Trade Rumors on Potential Khalil Mack Reunion With Bears Amid Chargers' Struggles

With his current team in free fall, veteran edge-rusher Khalil Mack could wind up back in the Windy City, according to The Athletic's Jonathan Jones.

Jones reported a trade between the Los Angeles Chargers and Chicago Bears "is something multiple league sources told me makes the most sense if both teams continue on their respective trajectories."

Two front-office executives suggested Mack could be worth a fifth-round pick. The Bears have the Atlanta Falcons' fifth-rounder by virtue of the Gervon Dexter Sr. trade.

Mack is on an expiring contract, and the Chargers are already facing long odds of reaching the playoffs thanks to an 0-4 start.

Assuming Los Angeles' outlook doesn't improve the closer we get to the Nov. 10 trade deadline, general manager Joe Hortiz might as well explore the trade market for the older players headed into free agency.

Given his age (35) and contract status, Mack wouldn't yield a ton of value, but he'd certainly have some suitors. He has three sacks and 14 tackles through four starts. He remains an effective pass-rusher.

The Bears are a top-five unit in yards and points allowed, so they're not in dire need of defensive upgrades. A Super Bowl contender should never stop looking for ways to improve, though. Imagine Mack lining up opposite Montez Sweat or being more of a situational option alongside Sweat and Dayo Odeyingbo

If a fifth-rounder is all it ultimately takes, Chicago or another playoff hopeful shouldn't think twice on a Mack trade.