Key Highlights
- The San Diego Chargers announced that left tackle Joe Alt will undergo season-ending surgery due to a right high ankle sprain.
- This is the second such injury for Alt this season, following an earlier sprain in Week 4.
- The Chargers’ offense has significantly struggled when Alt is absent from the field, losing key statistical advantages and dropping games that they would have otherwise won.
- With multiple offensive linemen currently out due to injuries, the team faces a challenging season ahead.
Chargers’ Season Hangs in Balance with Alt’s Injury
The San Diego Chargers suffered a significant setback when it was announced that left tackle Joe Alt will undergo season-ending surgery after suffering his second right high ankle sprain this season. The injury, which occurred during the team’s Week 9 match against the Tennessee Titans, has dealt a major blow to their prospects for the remainder of the 2023 NFL season.
Alt’s Crucial Role on Offense
Joe Alt’s presence in protecting quarterback Justin Herbert’s blindside has been essential for the Chargers’ offensive performance this season. When Alt is on the field, the Chargers are one of the NFL’s top five offenses, with a strong expected points added per play and net yards per attempt. In contrast, when he is sidelined due to injury, the team’s offense degrades significantly, performing more like the No. 22-ranked Carolina Panthers in terms of expected points added per play.
Lineup Chaos Due to Injuries
The absence of key offensive linemen has left the Chargers with a thin roster. Rashawn Slater, who tore his patellar tendon during the preseason, is out for the season, and Austin Deculus suffered an ankle injury in Week 7. Starting guard Mekhi Becton is also currently inactive due to a hand injury, further exacerbating the lineup issues. The team’s final offensive drive against the Titans featured a makeshift lineup with players filling in for injured starters.
Herbert’s Struggle
The loss of Alt has had a direct impact on quarterback Justin Herbert’s performance. With 28 sacks this season, he ranks third-most in the NFL, and his pressure rate is significantly higher when Alt is not present. In the recent game against the Titans, despite being contacted 10 times, which was below average compared to his usual contact rates, Herbert managed to rush for a team-high 57 yards and a touchdown.
Looking Ahead
The Chargers face an uncertain future with Joe Alt out of action. His injury could be the breaking point that undermines their season, as they already struggle without him on the field. The upcoming Week MRI will provide more insight into the extent of his injury and how long he might be sidelined beyond the end of this season.
The team’s management and coaching staff must now work to find a way to stabilize the offensive line while managing other key injuries, setting the stage for a critical final stretch of the 2023 NFL campaign.
