EL SEGUNDO — Outside linebacker Khalil Mack, safety Derwin James Jr. and left tackle Rashawn Slater of the Chargers were selected Thursday to play in the Pro Bowl Games, which will be highlighted by a flag football game between the AFC and NFC on Feb. 2 in Orlando, Florida.

Mack was named for the ninth time in his stellar career and the third in his three seasons since the Chargers acquired him in a trade with the Chicago Bears. He has six sacks going into the regular-season finale Sunday against the Raiders in Las Vegas, his 10th consecutive season with six or more sacks.

“We want bigger goals, but you can’t take these little moments for granted, 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 5½ 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.”