Losing K'Lavon Chaisson in free agency was a big blow to the New England Patriots' pass-rushing unit, especially with Harold Landry II also set to miss some time with an injury. Then, watching Gabe Jacas miss most of the offseason didn't help much.
Even so, the Patriots' pass rush has been much better than expected. Their 55 percent pass-rush win rate ranks seventh in the league, according to ESPN, and Jacas has shown signs of promise in a limited role.
However, even the best things can be improved, and this defense is no exception. That's why, with the Los Angeles Chargers starting 0-4, this team should be all over Khalil Mack, not only to help them and provide depth, but also to be the perfect mentor for Jacas.
The New England Patriots should inquire about Khalil Mack
First, let's talk about what he can bring to the defense. We've already established that the Patriots' pass rush has been outstanding, but the team is pretty thin at most spots and one injury away from catastrophe.
Trading for Mack sounds much more realistic than making a run at Maxx Crosby, and head coach Mike Vrabel has already ruled out making big moves. The Patriots would be on the hook for roughly $6 million by trading for Mack, and that's more down their alley.
Despite being 35, Mack is still a highly productive player who's nearly unblockable because of his quick get-off. He's got three sacks, 14 total pressures, and 7 run stops, and he's played 182 total snaps this season. He's giving Father Time a run for his money.
This might be his final season, and the future Hall of Famer would much rather play for a Super Bowl contender than ride into the sunset with a team likely to pick near the top of the draft. He can still make an impact against the run, and he's always been better in coverage than the average edge rusher.
Khalil Mack and Gabe Jacas are similar players in how they play
Now, back to the other point. This is where the Patriots could turn their investment in Khalil Mack into solid gold, as he looks like the perfect mentor to bring out the best in Gabe Jacas, a borderline carbon copy, at least body-wise.
While Mack was an otherworldly prospect with record-breaking college production, Jacas has a similar build and playing style. Both are fast and incredibly powerful guys who set a hard edge against the run and dominate with their bull rush, and they have nearly identical measurements.
Mack can help Jacas become a more consistent player in coverage, one of his few knacks coming out of college. He can also help him rush with purpose and add more moves to his repertoire rather than relying solely on his strength and raw power.
The Patriots have a special but raw talent in the Illinois product. He's shown enough promise to be worth the investment, and getting Kahlil Mack's input would make this trade a gift that will keep on giving for years.
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