Chargers Bring Back Star Linebackers Mack and Perryman Just in Time for Colts Clash - ESPN
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By Kris Rhim
October 18, 2025, 4:48 PM ET
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Kris Rhim serves as a reporter for NFL Nation at ESPN, specializing in coverage of the Los Angeles Chargers. He's particularly focused on head coach Jim Harbaugh's groundbreaking debut season with the team (check out this deep dive: https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/41068072/los-angeles-chargers-2024-preview-jim-harbaugh-culture). Outside of his professional life, Kris chases his basketball aspirations in various men's leagues throughout Los Angeles.
LOS ANGELES -- Imagine the thrill of a championship-caliber defense that's been missing its top playmakers – and now, they're sprinting back onto the field. The Los Angeles Chargers (https://www.espn.com/nfl/team//name/lac/los-angeles-chargers) have officially reactivated linebackers Khalil Mack (https://www.espn.com/nfl/player//id/16710/khalil-mack) and Denzel Perryman (https://www.espn.com/nfl/player//id/2579621/denzel-perryman) from injured reserve, as confirmed by the team on Saturday. This pivotal decision paves the way for both talented defenders to suit up and contribute against the Indianapolis Colts (https://www.espn.com/nfl/team//name/ind/indianapolis-colts) in Sunday's matchup, potentially shifting the game's momentum.
But here's where the story takes a twist: Mack's setback began during the Chargers' Week 2 victory over the Raiders. While attempting a tackle early in the game, his left hand became wedged between teammate Troy Dye (https://www.espn.com/nfl/player//id/4038946/troy-dye), a fellow Chargers linebacker, and Raiders wide receiver Tre Tucker (https://www.espn.com/nfl/player//id/4428718/tre-tucker). This unfortunate collision forced his elbow into an unnatural angle, leading to the injury that sidelined him. For those new to football, injured reserve is like a temporary bench for players recovering from significant ailments, keeping them out of action until they're fully ready to return without risk.
Similarly, Perryman dealt with an ankle issue stemming from the Chargers' Week 1 triumph against the Kansas City Chiefs (https://www.espn.com/nfl/team/_/name/kc/kansas-city-chiefs). Though the details of his specific play aren't exhaustive, the end result was clear: he joined Mack on the sidelines.
And this is the part most fans overlook – the absence of these two dynamic linebackers has noticeably weakened the Chargers' defensive lineup, especially in their ability to stop rushing attacks. Mack and Perryman are renowned for their prowess in plugging gaps and bringing down ball carriers, making them invaluable against ground-based offenses. Ever since their Week 3 game, which marked the first without both players, the Chargers have surrendered a whopping 579 rushing yards – ranking them sixth-worst in the entire NFL. In contrast, before Mack's injury placed him on injured reserve after Week 2, the team was holding opponents to the ninth-fewest rushing yards league-wide. To put this in perspective, imagine a fortress with two key guards missing; the enemy can charge right through, and that's exactly what happened here.
Now, facing off against the Colts adds another layer of excitement – and potential controversy. The Colts are powered by the NFL's top rusher, running back Jonathan Taylor (https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/_/id/4242335/jonathan-taylor), who's piled up an impressive 603 yards on the ground this season, along with seven touchdowns. He's the lone back averaging over 100 yards per game (precisely 100.5), making him a nightmare for defenses. Some might argue that the Chargers' recent struggles highlight a reliance on star players, sparking debates about team depth – is it fair to pin the blame on injuries, or should the coaching staff have adjusted better? Others could counter that true champions rise above such setbacks. What do you think: Will Mack and Perryman be the game-changers the Chargers need to shut down Taylor and secure a win? Or is this just a temporary boost against a powerhouse offense? Do you believe injuries like these are inevitable in a high-stakes sport, or could better protection strategies prevent them? Share your opinions in the comments – let's debate!
