Alt initially sprained his right ankle early in the 2025 season, forcing him to miss three games before returning for the Chargers’ win over the Minnesota Vikings on Oct. 23. Alt’s presence was evident from the start of the contest, giving quarterback Justin Herbert time to shape Minnesota’s defense Thursday night.
Such benefits would only last for approx. six quarters. Alt’s exit in Sunday’s win thinned out a tackle group already reliant on backups, having lost Rashawn Slater for the season — forcing Alt to move from right tackle to left tackle — and backup right tackle Bobby Hart, who left Sunday’s game in the first quarter with a groin injury.
If Hart can’t return, the Chargers will face the reality of being forced to start Salyer and Trey Pipkins at their two tackle spots. Pipkins has experience as a starter but hadn’t performed well enough to keep the front office from looking for an upgrade in recent offseasons.
The Chargers (6-3) are in the thick of the AFC playoff race, but know they will only go as far as Herbert can take them, which also depends on how well the Chargers can protect him. They struggled Sunday, allowing a season-high six sacks in a narrow win over the lowly Titans.
Los Angeles also doesn’t expect rugged rookie quarterback Omarion Hampton to return quickly. Coach Jim Harbaugh told reporters Monday that he doesn’t expect Hampton’s activation window to open until after Week 12.
Don’t be surprised if Los Angeles explores potential reinforcements — with offensive line being the primary concern — before Tuesday’s trade deadline at 4:00 PM ET.