On Sunday, the Los Angeles Chargers managed to pull off a 27-20 victory over the Tennessee Titans, improving their record and keeping their playoff hopes alive. However, despite what the scoreboard says, this game felt like a gut punch for the Bolts. The win came at a heavy cost, as star left tackle Joe Alt went down with yet another high ankle sprain — an injury that has already plagued him this season.

The unfortunate play occurred in the second quarter when a Titans defender rolled into Alt’s leg as he was setting his block. The second-year standout was listed as questionable to return but ultimately remained on the sideline for the rest of the game. The sight of Alt limping off the field was an all-too-familiar scene for Chargers fans, who know just how different this offense looks without him protecting Justin Herbert’s blind side.

When Alt missed time earlier this year, the offensive line completely unraveled. Herbert faced relentless pressure, absorbing a league-high number of hits and hurries. The absence of the 6’8” anchor at left tackle has consistently exposed just how thin this offensive line really is. Offensive coordinator Greg Roman has had to dig deep into the depth chart, relying on reserves who have been thrust into major roles. Unfortunately, the results have been predictable — Herbert constantly running for his life, often with little time to let plays develop.

Sunday’s game once again showed what opposing defenses can do to this banged-up offensive front. Herbert was hit 11 times and sacked six times by the Titans’ defense, who smelled blood in the water from the moment Alt left the field. If not for Herbert’s athleticism and ability to escape the pocket, those numbers could have been even worse. Moving forward, Herbert’s mobility may be the only thing keeping this offense afloat until Alt returns.

Now, the Chargers are facing the harsh reality of another extended absence from one of their most important players. While the team has yet to release an official diagnosis, ESPN’s Adam Schefter has reported that the injury could require a procedure — a major concern given how late in the season it is. The Chargers’ upcoming bye week provides a glimmer of hope that Alt could recover in time to rejoin the lineup for a potential playoff push. But for now, Los Angeles must find a way to protect their franchise quarterback without their best offensive lineman — a challenge they’ve yet to solve.

Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) on X Chargers LT Joe Alt is believed to have suffered another high ankle sprain, only this time it could require a procedure to repair, per sources. Alt will undergo an MRI on Monday to confirm the diagnosis on the same right ankle he injured earlier this season at the Giants.