The Los Angeles Chargers’ hard-fought 27–20 win over the Tennessee Titans on Sunday came at a steep cost. Star rookie left tackle Joe Alt was carted off in the second quarter with what’s believed to be his second high right ankle sprain of the season — and this time, it’s officially over.
“Joe Alt will undergo season-ending ankle surgery,” The Athletic’s Daniel Popper reported Monday, confirming the Chargers’ announcement.
A Painful Déjà Vu For Joe Alt
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Alt’s injury occurred on a Titans blitz when he was pushed backward into a diving defender, rolling awkwardly on his right leg. He was immediately helped to the sideline and later spotted on crutches after the game.
Per ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the injury is a recurrence of the same ankle issue that sidelined Alt for three games earlier this year. He avoided surgery the first time and returned just last week against Minnesota, but this latest sprain proved far more severe.
Adding to the concern, right tackle Bobby Hart also exited Sunday’s game in the first quarter with a groin injury, forcing Jamaree Salyer into action. With both starting tackles now sidelined, Los Angeles may need to explore trade or free-agent options to stabilize the offensive line.
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Harbaugh, Herbert React to the Loss
Head coach Jim Harbaugh acknowledged the emotional and strategic impact of losing his top lineman again.
“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 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.”
What’s Next for the Chargers
The numbers tell the story: when Alt starts and finishes a game, the Chargers average 28 points per contest and are 4–0. Without him, they drop to 20.8 points and a 2–3 record.
With Alt now lost for the year, Harbaugh’s offense faces a major test heading into Week 10 against the Pittsburgh Steelers’ ferocious pass rush. The Chargers will likely look to reinforce their offensive line — but replacing their rookie cornerstone won’t be easy.
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