Chargers’ Alt Undergoes Season-Ending Ankle Surgery

Los Angeles Chargers left tackle Joe Alt is set to undergo season-ending ankle surgery. This decision follows a high ankle sprain he suffered during the Chargers’ recent victory against the Tennessee Titans. The injury occurred in the second quarter when defensive tackle Sebastian Joseph-Day collided with Alt’s right ankle.

Injury Overview

This marks Alt’s second high ankle sprain of the current season. Previously, he suffered a similar injury in the first quarter of the Chargers’ Week 4 loss to the New York Giants, which forced him to miss three games.

Coach’s Comments

Jim Harbaugh, the Chargers’ head coach, expressed sympathy for Alt, stating, “I feel bad for Joe, but I know it’s going to be OK.” This sentiment highlights the team’s focus on resilience despite the setbacks.

Impact on the Offensive Line

The Chargers anticipated a strong offensive line this season, leveraging both Alt and Pro Bowl tackle Rashawn Slater. However, with both players sidelined, the team faces a significant challenge. Slater sustained a season-ending patellar tendon rupture in training camp. Additionally, right guard Mekhi Becton has dealt with various injuries, including a knee issue that caused him to miss the recent match against the Titans.

Further Injuries

Right tackle Bobby Hart also experienced an injury during the Titans game, leaving early in the first quarter due to complications from a fall. Hart is dealing with both groin and ankle injuries, but the coaching staff does not expect him to be placed on injured reserve.

Performance Analysis

The Chargers’ performance has reflected Alt’s importance. They boast a record of 4-0 when he plays the entire game but drop to 2-3 without him. Quarterback Justin Herbert’s quarterback rating (QBR) is significantly higher at 80 with Alt on the field, versus just 56 without him. This demonstrates the critical role he plays in both protection and offensive strategy.

Offensive Struggles

• The team ranks 30th in the NFL for pass block win rate at 52.6% this season.
• Without Alt, this figure plummets to a league-low 48%.

Running Back Challenges

In addition to Alt’s situation, the running back group has suffered immensely. Veteran Najee Harris is out for the season due to an Achilles rupture. Omarion Hampton currently resides on injured reserve due to an ankle injury sustained in Week 5. The team also placed Hassan Haskins on injured reserve with a hamstring injury.

In their last game, the Chargers relied on their fourth, fifth, and sixth-string running backs. This situation is expected to continue until Hampton is cleared to return after the Week 12 bye. Harbaugh remains optimistic, stating, “It’s adversity, and you just do the best you can and get better. Never give up.” The team must embrace these challenges as they navigate the remainder of the season.