I don’t think there was ever any question that new Chicago Bear/monster Khalil Mack would be keeping himself physically in condition to play some football quickly after his holdout with the Raiders concluded. Moreover, as far as schemes go, while I would definitely not downplay the nuances of a modern professional defense, there is at least some level of “just go get the dang quarterback” to his job.
So, that is to say, it wouldn’t be a shock to see Mack taking significant snaps next Sunday against the Green Bay Packers. But, then again, when you factor in his importance and the slightly increased chance of injury risk if a guy is out there trying to prove a little something before he’s totally geared up, maybe there is reason to be cautious.
That’s basically what Matt Nagy said about whether Mack would play against Green Bay:
Coach Nagy when asked about the likelihood of Khalil Mack playing next Sunday night vs. Packers: "Hopefully pretty good."
— Chicago Bears (@ChicagoBears) September 2, 2018
Matt Nagy asked about Khalil Mack playing against the Packers. pic.twitter.com/V4kn8nnpkT
— ⓂarcusD (@_MarcusD2_) September 2, 2018
Given the disproportionate importance of that first game, you sure do hope Mack is close to normal readiness to go. Gut says, if he doesn’t get hurt in the next week, he’ll play at least some.