The Los Angeles Chargers have ruled out their left tackle, Joe Alt, for the upcoming game against the Washington Commanders. Alt is suffering from a high ankle sprain in his right ankle, which will keep him out of action this Sunday.
In addition to Alt, the team also confirmed the absence of wide receiver Derius Davis, who is suffering from a knee injury. The coach announced that Tarheeb Still will continue to take on the kickoff return responsibilities, in the absence of Davis.
Alt’s injury occurred during the first quarter of the Week 4 game against the New York Giants. Giants defensive end Kayvon Thibodeaux fell on Alt’s right leg during a play.
Coach Harbaugh mentioned that it has not yet been determined whether Alt will be placed on the injured reserve list. Alt did not participate in any practices and was seen wearing a walking boot. The player has expressed his desire to return as soon as possible.
Harbaugh indicated that they have already defined who will replace Alt at the left tackle position on Sunday, but preferred not to reveal the name. “We’ll keep it to ourselves,” he stated. “We have a good plan.”
Regarding Mekhi Becton, right guard, who missed the previous game due to a concussion, he is still in the NFL’s concussion protocol. However, he is only one step away from being able to play on Sunday. Becton is officially questionable and fully participated in Friday’s practice, after having had limitations on Wednesday and Thursday.
Without Alt in the field against the Giants, the performance of the Chargers’ offensive line was poor. Quarterback Justin Herbert was hit 13 times and sacked twice. Alt’s replacement, Austin Deculus, struggled, allowing six pressures in 37 pass-blocking plays, the most among Chargers offensive linemen.
Herbert has been one of the most pressured quarterbacks in the NFL this season, with 47 hits received, the second most in the league.
