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 one could require surgery, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
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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 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 is reportedly more severe. Alt is set to undergo an MRI on Monday to determine the full extent of the damage — and whether a surgical procedure will be needed.
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.
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.”
Alt’s Value and What’s at Stake 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.
If Alt’s MRI confirms significant ligament damage, surgery could sideline him for much — if not all — of the remaining season. With the Steelers’ ferocious pass rush on deck, the Chargers’ depth up front will be tested more than ever.
For now, Los Angeles is holding its breath — and hoping its rookie cornerstone won’t need the operating table.
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