The Chargers acquired Khalil Mack from Chicago for a 2022…
The Chargers acquired Khalil Mack from Chicago for a 2022 second-round pick and a 2023 sixth-rounder. Mack gave Los Angeles multiple seasons of high-end edge play, including a huge 2023 pass-rushing year. Chicago used the second-round pick on safety Jaquan Brisker, who became an immediate starter and long-term defensive piece. One team bought veteran star production; the other gained a younger starter and cap flexibility, producing a balanced result.
Chicago Bears Received
- pick 2022 2nd round pick (48th overall, Jaquan Brisker)
- pick 2023 6th round pick (200th overall subsequently traded, Scott Matlock)
Los Angeles Chargers Received
- player Khalil Mack
Trade Analysis
What Changed Hands
Los Angeles acquired Khalil Mack from Chicago in March 2022 for a second-round pick that year and a 2023 sixth-round selection. The Bears used the second-rounder, No. 48, on Penn State safety Jaquan Brisker. The later sixth was eventually moved again. Chicago was beginning a roster and salary reset, while the Chargers were trying to pair Mack with Joey Bosa and create an imposing veteran pass rush around Justin Herbert's competitive window.
Why Los Angeles Can Like the Deal
Mack delivered the premium performance the Chargers were seeking. He remained a high-level edge defender, supplied major sack production and gave the front a proven every-down presence even when injuries affected other parts of the defense. Los Angeles surrendered meaningful draft value and absorbed a veteran contract, but it did so to acquire a player capable of changing games immediately. Mack's best Chargers seasons comfortably cleared the standard for a successful veteran acquisition.
How Chicago Fared
The Bears also converted their return well. Brisker stepped into the starting lineup as a rookie and developed into a physical, versatile safety, giving Chicago years of cost-controlled defensive snaps from the centerpiece pick. Moving Mack also aligned with a broader transition toward a younger roster and greater future financial flexibility. The Bears therefore did not merely save money; they turned the transaction into a legitimate long-term starter.
Final Verdict
Both teams earn a B+. The Chargers received several seasons of disruptive play from a star pass rusher, while the Bears gained a young starting safety and reset resources during a rebuild. Neither outcome needs to be minimized to create a winner. Because Mack performed at a premium level and Brisker became a durable core defender, the fairest retrospective judgment is an Even Trade.