Chargers Share New Encouraging Joe Alt Injury Update Ahead of Week 6 Dolphins Clash

Is Jim Harbaugh The Real Life Ted Lasso?

The Chargers’ offensive line entered the season with high expectations. General manager Joe Hortiz and Harbaugh had touted Alt and right tackle Rashawn Slater as one of the league’s best tackle pairings. The signing of right guard Mekhi Becton added further optimism about depth.

Those hopes have been tested. Slater suffered a season-ending patellar tendon injury in training camp, Alt is sidelined, and Becton is dealing with a hand issue. Through five weeks, Los Angeles ranks 28th in pass block win rate (51.7%) and 24th in run block win rate (69.7%), highlighting the struggles of a once-promising line.

Austin Deculus, who replaced Alt at left tackle, has posted a 69% pass block win rate—the worst among eligible tackles over the past two weeks—and allowed three sacks, the most in the NFL. Harbaugh acknowledged the ongoing evaluation at left tackle but emphasized that Alt’s return is crucial.

Pressure on Herbert and Adjustments

With both starting tackles sidelined, quarterback Justin Herbert has faced pressure on 45.5% of dropbacks and has been sacked 16 times through Week 5. Despite this, Herbert ranks third in the league with 178 pass attempts, underscoring the offense’s reliance on him to keep drives alive.

The Chargers also face the challenge of replacing rookie running back Omarion Hampton, who will be placed on injured reserve due to an ankle injury, removing a key option to alleviate pass protection pressures.

Glimmer of Optimism For Joe Alt Injury

Alt’s progress offers a potential turning point. Harbaugh’s comments and Alt’s ability to move without a boot signal hope that the left tackle could return in time to stabilize a beleaguered line. With the Dolphins coming to town, Los Angeles needs every available veteran to give Herbert the protection he needs and restore balance to an offense battered by injuries.

“He’s doing really well,” Harbaugh said, emphasizing that the Chargers are eager for Alt’s return. The team, 3-2 after a challenging stretch, will rely on him and the rest of the offensive line to prevent further damage and keep their season on track.