either,” James said when asked about Mack’s selections. “Khalil Mack, this is his ninth Pro Bowl. Come on, man. I haven’t even been in the league nine years. So, that speaks for itself. I’m just proud of him.”

James was selected for the fourth time in his career, and for the third time in four seasons. He is the Chargers’ second-leading tackler with 90, including 58 solo, with one regular-season game to play. He also has 5 1/2 sacks, one interception and one fumble recovery while playing a variety of roles.

“Man, special,” Mack said of James’ play this season. “I’m happy that everybody can see how special a player he is. Week in and week out, he’s been holding it down. He’s been playing against the other team’s best player. The tight ends, he holds them to zero catches. He’s a special player.”

Slater earned his second career selection after he became the first rookie tackle to be selected in a decade in 2021. He has been a critical part of an offensive line that’s protected quarterback Justin Herbert this season, allowing him to throw for more than 3,500 yards with 21 touchdowns and three interceptions.

“It’s an honor, for sure,” Slater said. “Cool to be recognized.”

Fans, players and coaches voted for the Pro Bowl teams. The selected players will participate in a weeklong celebration of football that includes tests of skills and is followed by a flag football game between the conferences Feb. 2 at Nicholson Fieldhouse at the University of Central Florida.

“Khalil and Derwin on defense and Rashawn Slater on offense as Pro Bowl selections, I’ve said it before, but having those two guys (Mack and James), having those two as leaders, as veterans, have made my job a lot easier,” Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter said.

“To see them rewarded is great. Major shoutout to them.”

Of the day-to-day and game-to-game improvement of Slater this season, Chargers offensive coordinator Greg Roman said, “I think Rashawn is just getting better all the time. ... Every week, you can say Rashawn has played his best game of the year. True pro. Love working with him. Nothing but positives.”

MACK HONORED (PART 2)

Mack won the Good Guy Award, narrowly edging James in voting by the Chargers’ beat reporters. Linebackers Morgan Fox and Daiyan Henley tied for third. Kicker Cameron Dicker and running back J.K. Dobbins each received one vote. The Chargers’ MVP will be announced next week.

INJURY UPDATES

Running back Gus Edwards (ankle) and wide receiver Joshua Palmer (foot) didn’t participate in Thursday’s practice. Mack (rest), defensive lineman Poona Ford (elbow) and wide receiver Ladd McConkey (toe) returned to practice after sitting out Wednesday. Safety Alohi Gilman (hamstring), linebacker Denzel Perryman (groin) and right guard Trey Pipkins III (hip) were limited participants.