Khalil Mack Named Captain as Chargers Announce 2025 Season Leadership

Los Angeles, CA - The Los Angeles Chargers made a significant announcement on August 28, 2025, naming veteran outside linebacker Khalil Mack as one of their team captains for the upcoming season alongside quarterback Justin Herbert and five other players.

The team revealed their 2025 leadership structure during their final preparations before the season opener. The offensive captains include Justin Herbert, left tackle Joe Alt, and center Bradley Bozeman, with wide receiver Keenan Allen serving as the alternate. On the defensive side, Khalil Mack joins safety Derwin James Jr. and linebacker Daiyan Henley as captains, with linebacker Denzel Perryman named as the alternate.

Captain Selection Process

Head coach Jim Harbaugh emphasized the extensive leadership depth within the organization, noting that the voting process revealed remarkable team unity. “We got a lot of leaders on this team. We got a lot of captains on this team,” Harbaugh said, adding that 15 players on offense and 13 on defense received votes in the captain selection process. The voting was so competitive that only one vote separated some captains from their alternates.

Mack’s Leadership Role

This marks another milestone for the 34-year-old Mack, who signed a one-year, $18 million fully guaranteed contract extension with the Chargers earlier this year after considering retirement. The nine-time Pro Bowl selection brings veteran leadership to a Chargers defense that finished among the NFL’s best in 2024.

“His calm demeanor, blended with his ability to elevate others, is what makes him a model candidate for this title,” noted team analysts regarding Mack’s selection.

Season Outlook

The captain announcement comes as the Chargers prepare for what could be Mack’s final NFL campaign. Despite entering his 12th season, Mack has expressed optimism about his physical condition and potential longevity. “I feel good. I feel young. I feel like I can hang in there for a few more (years),” Mack recently told Kay Adams.

The Chargers are coming off an impressive 2024 season that saw them reach the playoffs under first-year head coach Jim Harbaugh. With Mack’s leadership and the return of key defensive players, Los Angeles aims to make a deeper postseason run in 2025.

The team opens their season against the Kansas City Chiefs in Brazil on September 5, with Mack and his fellow captains leading a Chargers squad with Super Bowl aspirations.