Fixing the pass rush is arguably the Green Bay Packers' top offseason priority — GM Brian Gutekunst made that clear.
How the Packers go about it is the mystery.
They need more from Rashan Gary and Lukas Van Ness, but banking on that is a roll of the dice. Kingsley Enagbare and Brenton Cox Jr. provided solid complementary play, but the Packers lack a consistent game-changer.
Green Bay could prioritize the pass rush early in the 2025 NFL Draft, especially if a prospect like Texas A&M's Shemar Stewart surprisingly falls to No. 23.
Perhaps they turn to the trade market. Maxx Crosby is no longer a possibility, and the Cleveland Browns continue to shut down Myles Garrett trade talks, but NFL sack champion Trey Hendrickson is surprisingly available.
Then, there is free agency, where the Packers could have the opportunity to land a future Hall of Famer while sticking it to the Chicago Bears in the process. Enter Khalil Mack.
Khalil Mack would help fix Packers' pass rush while ruining the Bears' reunion plans
Many factors could sink the Packers' chances of landing Mack in free agency, but Gutekunst should consider making a strong offer if he becomes available at the start of the new league year.
The Los Angeles Chargers may push to re-sign the nine-time Pro Bowler, especially after releasing Joey Bosa.
If he hits free agency, the Packers would have to overcome competition, potentially from the rival Bears, who dropped a hint of their possible interest by featuring Mack at the start of a highlight package on social media.
The Bears beat the Packers to trade for Mack seven years ago, so it would feel good to get some revenge now.
And Mack could be the missing piece in Jeff Hafley's defense. Despite recently turning 34, Mack proved he is still a top-tier pass-rusher last season. Per Pro Football Focus, his 52 pressures were more than any Packers defender. Only four edge-rushers earned a higher overall PFF grade than Mack's 90.2.
Even if he doesn't produce All-Pro numbers in Green Bay, Mack could immediately upgrade the pass rush and offer consistent production alongside Gary.
Gutekunst doubled down at safety last offseason, signing Xavier McKinney before drafting Javon Bullard, Evan Williams, and Kitan Oladapo. He could take a similar approach at edge-rusher. Sign Mack to provide short-term help and use the draft to build depth and find future starters.
Several teams could show interest in Mack, including the rival Bears. The Packers should do everything possible to get one over on their NFC North foes and significantly upgrade their pass rush.