If the LA Chargers’ 2024 season takes a downturn, Week 3 will likely be seen as the turning point where things began to unravel—not due to their first loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers, but because of the injuries sustained during that game.
The Chargers lost four former first-round picks in that matchup, with Justin Herbert, Joey Bosa, Rashawn Slater, and Joe Alt all exiting the game early. Of those four, only Herbert was able to play in Week 4 against the Kansas City Chiefs, though he was clearly not at full strength.
The Chargers’ Week 5 bye couldn’t have come at a better time, providing key players the chance to rest and recover without the pressure of rushing back for a game. Given the team’s performance in the last two weeks, however, the Chargers aren’t treating this bye as time off. Head coach Jim Harbaugh has the team practicing, aiming to get back on track for Week 6 and beyond.
In a surprise to many, Joe Alt participated in the team’s first practice. While there were no official practice designations (such as full or limited participation) since it’s not a game week, fans are feeling optimistic based on the updates from the session.
Chargers may have avoided injury disaster with Joe Alt
The initial diagnosis for Joe Alt after Week 3 was an MCL sprain, which created uncertainty about his recovery timeline. The severity of the injury—ranging from a grade 1 to a grade 3 strain—significantly affects how long a player will be sidelined, and that detail wasn’t immediately available.
Although the Chargers haven’t officially disclosed the grade of Alt’s sprain, their handling of the situation speaks volumes. Alt’s return to practice and his listing as questionable rather than ruled out for Week 4 suggests that he likely sustained a grade 1 strain, indicating a quicker recovery and an earlier return to the field.
While nothing is guaranteed, based on the current trajectory, it’s not unreasonable to expect Joe Alt to return for the Chargers in Week 6 against the Denver Broncos.
Alt has quickly proven himself to be an above-average right tackle, and his return would be a huge boost for the Chargers. His comeback is especially crucial with Rashawn Slater potentially sidelined longer due to a torn pectoral. In preparation for this, the Chargers had Alt practicing at left tackle during Wednesday’s session. Although Slater’s status remains uncertain, Alt’s rapid recovery is a significant blessing for the team, as they look to reinforce their offensive line.
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