San Francisco 49ers’ tight end George Kittle wants his franchise to make a move which will help them in improving their defense for the latter part of the 2026 NFL season. It has been reported that the talented tight end is discussing with the general manager of the 49ers, John Lynch regarding signing Khalil Mack of Los Angeles Chargers. This move comes at a time when Los Angeles Chargers are having a tough time as they have not won a single game yet and the 49ers are dealing with some injury issues in their defense line up.
George Kittle Puts Khalil Mack’s Name Into John Lynch’s Head As The 49ers Need Defensive Help
According to NBC Sports journalist Matt Maiocco, Lynch revealed that Kittle had asked him on Thursday whether he could trade for Mack.
It seems like the veteran player of the Chargers has become of interest to the team because it is needed to add someone who would help in rushing to opposing quarterbacks. The player has already got three sacks this year, with 15 tackles, five tackles for loss and 10 quarterback pressures.
Khalil Mack has played in the league for 14 years already, spending his seasons in the Oakland Raiders, Chicago Bears and now Los Angeles Chargers teams.
George Kittle modeling new locker room shirt https://t.co/xFoRCm92hX
— Vic Tafur (@VicTafur) October 16, 2026
The 49ers have faced some problems with injuries in the line of defense. That is why adding a new player would help them to strengthen their defenses.
Why Khalil Mack Should Consider Helping The San Francisco 49ers Get In The Playoffs
Khalil Mack’s current one-year contract should put him at the forefront of any potential trade for the Chargers due to the team’s 0-5 record at the time of writing.
According to Bleacher Report, Mack was the number one trade candidate heading into Week 6, and he could bring in a conditional fourth-round pick in 2027 in return, provided that Los Angeles agrees and depending on how other teams bid for him.
In this case, the Chicago Bears and the San Francisco 49ers have been listed as potential landing spots for the 28-year-old defensive back.
Additionally, Mack has never won a playoff game since he entered the league.
Lynch has to take into account the cost versus the benefit of obtaining a veteran defender, while Kittle’s reported inquiry does not necessarily mean that the trade is near.
However, now his name enters into the discussion. For the 49ers, it’s about weighing whether the help of one veteran pass rusher is worth their injuries problems.
Topics mentioned in this article