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Justin Herbert, Chargers Receive Good News on Thursday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nate Lunak | Last updated Oct 16, 2025 6:40 PM ET

Justin Herbert and the 4-2 Los Angeles Chargers face off against the 5-1 Indianapolis Colts in Week 7. The Chargers ended a two-game losing streak in Week 6, defeating the Miami Dolphins 29-27.

Herbert led a game-winning 44-yard drive in the fourth quarter, ending in a go-ahead field goal from kicker Cameron Dicker. The quarterback finished the day throwing for 264 yards, two touchdowns, zero interceptions and a 112.2 passer rating.

He was able to do so without several key offensive pieces, including wide receiver Quentin Johnston, wide receiver Derius Davis, offensive tackle Joe Alt and offensive tackle Trey Pipkins III.

Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

The Chargers have been without Alt since he sustained an ankle injury in Week 4 against the New York Giants. Despite having already missed the last two games, Los Angeles decided not to add him to the injured reserve.

He may have the opportunity to return soon and help Herbert through the rest of the 2025 season. On Thursday, the Chargers announced their injury report, listing Alt as limited, making it the first time he's participated in practice since getting hurt.

thursday’s #INDvsLAC injury report pic.twitter.com/UbXQc3oLNJ
— Los Angeles Chargers (@chargers) October 16, 2025

Alt, a first-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft out of Notre Dame, has been effective since joining the NFL. Before his injury, he'd earned a Pro Football Focus overall grade of 81.5, ranking sixth out of 114 offensive tackles.

His return could come at a crucial time, as the Chargers' offensive line has struggled to keep Herbert clean. Through six games, they're tied for the fifth-most sacks allowed (18), allowing a sack on 7.6% of pass attempts.

The Colts' defense has excelled at getting to the quarterback, racking up 16 sacks (tied for seventh), 21 quarterback knockdowns (tied for seventh), 57 pressures (fifth-most) and 20 hurries (seventh-most).

Having Alt on the field would give Herbert better protection as he faces a tough defensive unit. Time will tell if he's healthy enough to go. Kickoff between the Chargers and Colts is Sunday at 4:05 p.m. ET at SoFi Stadium, airing on CBS.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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