Khalil Mack defends Justin Herbert, hints at retirement after playoff loss

It wasn't the ending the Los Angeles Chargers were hoping for. A 32-12 blowout loss to the Houston Texans in the AFC Wild Card round wasn't just unexpected-it was downright painful. For a team that had controlled much of the first half, watching things spiral out of control left fans, players, and even the coaching staff searching for answers.

Much of the blame has landed squarely on quarterback Justin Herbert. After a stellar regular season with only three interceptions, Herbert unraveled on Saturday, completing just 14 of 32 es for 242 yards, one touchdown, and four interceptions. It wasn't just the stats-Herbert looked completely lost, forcing throws and making decisions that didn't feel like his usual self.

But if Khalil Mack is any indication, the Chargers' locker room hasn't lost faith in their young quarterback. Speaking to the media after the game, Mack defended Herbert, saying, "We win as a team, we lose as a team. One game doesn't erase what Justin's done for us." His was unwavering, even in the face of one of Herbert's worst outings.

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The bigger surprise, though? Mack hinted that this might be his last game. After 12 seasons, six Pro Bowl appearances, and a Defensive Player of the Year award, the 32-year-old rusher is seriously considering retirement. "I've been thinking a lot about life after football," Mack itted. "It's something I'll take time to decide."

Chargers look to the future amid Khalil Mack's uncertainty

If Mack walks away, it'll leave a massive hole in the Chargers' defense. But it's not all doom and gloom-rookie Tuli Tuipulotu had a breakout season and looks ready to step up. "Tuli's special," Mack said. "If I'm done, I know this defense is in good hands."

The Chargers aren't in a bad spot, despite the disappointing finish. This was year one under head coach Jim Harbaugh, and the roster is loaded with young talent. Players like safety Derwin James are optimistic about the team's future. Still, James made it clear he's not ready to say goodbye to Mack just yet. "Khalil's the heart of this defense,"James said. "If he's done, he's going out as one of the greats."

While Mack's decision looms, so does the question of Herbert's bounce-back. Is he the quarterback who lit up defenses during the regular season, or the one who struggled in the playoffs? The Chargers believe in him, and with Harbaugh at the helm, there's hope that Herbert can take the next step.

For now, though, the focus is on Khalil Mack and whether one of the league's best defenders will hang up his cleats. If he does, he leaves behind a legacy of dominance-and a defense looking to move forward without its anchor.