Chargers Reveal Joe Alt Injury Update After Win Over Titans

Los Angeles Chargers star left tackle Joe Alt was carted off the field during Sunday’s win over the Tennessee Titans after suffering his second high right ankle sprain of the season.

As Chargers Wire noted, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the injury is a recurrence of the same ankle issue that sidelined Alt for three games earlier this year. 

While he was able to avoid surgery the first time and made his return just last week against the Vikings, this latest sprain is reportedly more severe and could require a procedure to repair the damage.

Alt was seen on crutches following the game and is scheduled for an MRI on Monday to determine the full extent of the injury.

The Chargers’ offensive line took another hit when right tackle Bobby Hart exited in the first quarter with a groin injury. Jamaree Salyer filled in for Alt after his departure.

With two key tackles now dealing with injuries, the Bolts may have to explore trade or free-agent options to reinforce their offensive line ahead of the upcoming deadline.

Harbaugh and Herbert React to Alt’s Injury

After the game, head coach Jim Harbaugh didn’t hide how significant the loss could be.

We showed a lot of grit today,” Harbaugh said.

“But losing Joe again is tough, he’s one of those rare players who brings confidence to everyone around him. You don’t replace a guy like that easily.”

Quarterback Justin Herbert echoed that sentiment, calling Alt “a steadying force” for the entire offense. 

“You can feel it when Joe’s out there,” Herbert said. “He’s physical, composed, and gives us time to make plays. It’s hard to see him go down again after how hard he worked to come back.”

Despite the injury, the Chargers resilience showed in their 27-20 road win over the Titans. 

“We battled and found a way,” Harbaugh said. “That’s the kind of fight you want to see from your team.” 

Herbert threw for 250 yards and two touchdowns while also using his legs for 57 more on the ground. The defense stepped up big as they held the Titans to only 232 yards off offense. 

Still, the celebration was muted as the locker room’s attention turned to Alt’s injury and the growing concern over the offensive line’s health.

Alt’s Impact on the Chargers’ Offense

Joe Alt’s value to the Los Angeles Chargers has been undeniable. 

In his rookie season, Alt allowed just six sacks across approximately 600 pass-blocking snaps, a remarkably low number for a first-year left tackle.

With Alt healthy and starting, the Chargers’ offensive line looked far more consistent and confident and the offensive stats back it up.

So far this season, when Alt starts and finishes a game, the Chargers are averaging 28 points per game. When he doesn’t, they are only averaging 20.8 points per game. 

The Chargers are 4-0 with a full-game Alt on the field, compared to a 2-3 record without him. Without Alt, their pass block win rate drops to a league-worst 48% compared to 52.6% with him. 

He is the focal point of this offense, and his absence will undoubtedly have a major impact on the Chargers. 

But in the meantime, other guys will have to step up because if LA hopes to stay in the AFC playoff race, they’ll need to find a way to keep the offense steady until Joe Alt is able to return.

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