Joe Alt's Return Expected to Boost Chargers' Offensive Line in 2026

Joe Alt, the Los Angeles Chargers' right tackle, suffered a season-ending ankle injury in Week 9, contributing significantly to the team's offensive line struggles last season. The Chargers finished bottom two in Pro Football Focus' run- and pass-blocking grades and ESPN's run- and pass-blocking win rates, leading to QB Justin Herbert being pressured on a league-high 43.6% of his dropbacks. With Alt's anticipated return and better health across the line, the offensive line is expected to be much improved in 2026, bolstering the team's overall offensive performance.