Almost everyone thought that the LA Chargers linebacker Khalil Mack would miss the entire season after his scary elbow injury against the LV Raiders in week 2. But he followed a smart strategy and came back in week 7 against the Indianapolis Colts, where the Chargers lost 38-24. However, now, Mack wants more from his head coach, Jim Harbaugh.

On Wednesday, October 22, Mack cleared his stance. “I want to win,” he gave a clear 4-word message to his team and the coach. That’s his wake-up call to his locker room to play with more energy. Furthermore, he then added, “Just trying to be as patient as possible and smart as possible…I want to win football games.”

Even though Khalil Mack played only 12 of the team’s 60 defensive snaps in his first game off of injured reserve, he still made an impact. Mack sacked Daniel Jones on second down and also recorded 2 tackles (both solo). But his comeback game also showed how much the Chargers have struggled without him. Since their strong 3-0 start, the team has lost three of its last four games. During that stretch, the defense fell from the No. 1 scoring defense to No. 18, giving up seven rushing touchdowns in the last three weeks.

Mack spoke passionately after the game. He said the defeat left a “bad taste” in everyone’s mouth and that talk alone wasn’t enough anymore. He called for more action and accountability from the team. Overall, Mack has played 3 games (2 starts) and logged 2 sacks and 4 tackles (all solo).

As the Chargers prepare for Thursday night’s game against the Vikings, Mack’s words and presence could make a big difference. Also, along with him, left tackle Joe Alt, and other injured players are returning, hence, the team hopes to regain its confidence. Alt’s comeback will also give a huge boost, as the line will be much better in pass protection. Even ESPN‘s Mina Kimes highlighted Mack’s importance when she predicted the Colts’ win over the Chargers after knowing Alt’s absence for Week 7.

On the other hand, Mack wants to lead the charge, both on the field and in the locker room, to help the Chargers get back on track.

Khalil Mack and Jim Harbaugh get a hard reality check

Khalil Mack made it clear after the ugly loss to the Colts that it’s time for more than just talk. “Just want to see a lot more action-based things at this pivotal time of the season,” Mack said. The veteran defensive leader isn’t interested in excuses; he wants to turn things around. However, the Chargers are facing some hard reality checks.

Injuries have hit the team hard, especially at running back and the offensive line. RB Najee Harris is out for the season with an Achilles injury, and RB Omarion Hampton is also on injured reserve with an ankle problem, leaving RB Kimani Vidal the only healthy back. It’s because, per the reports, Hassan Haskins (hamstring) is also out for Thursday night’s game.

Vidal has played 4 games this season, starting 2 of them. He has 31 carries for 162 rushing yards, averaging 5.2 yards per carry, with no rushing touchdowns. In the passing game, Vidal has 8 receptions for 30 yards and 1 touchdown, showing some versatility as a dual-threat back.

In addition to that, the team is also reportedly exploring trade options to help the depth chart and strengthen the backfield. Some options under their lens include Cleveland’s RB Jerome Ford and the Jets’ RB Breece Hall.

The offensive line has been another major challenge. With Rashawn Slater out for the year and Joe Alt sidelined by a high-ankle sprain, the Chargers have struggled to protect the quarterback. They rank 28th in pass-block win rate and have allowed 18 sacks, tied for the fifth-most in the NFL. Finding reliable offensive tackles on the trade market is difficult, and salary cap limits mean any addition could require contract restructuring.

With Mack back, along with other injured players returning, the Chargers have a chance to stabilize. But they still need action.