Chargers Joe – Right tackle Joe Alt remains sidelined with a neck injury as the Chargers manage a growing list of practice absences ahead of Sunday’s matchup against Denver.
The Chargers’ offensive front faces a significant hurdle this week. Right tackle Joe Alt was sidelined during Wednesday’s practice with a neck injury. and the outlook for Sunday’s game against the Denver Broncos remains grim. He is not expected to suit up. though the team has opted against placing him on injured reserve. leaving the door slightly ajar for a faster recovery.
Alt’s absence follows a collision late in the first half of the team’s most recent outing, an injury that forced Travis Burke to step in and fill the vacancy. His move to the bench was part of a broader, concerning trend at practice on Wednesday, where eight different players were absent entirely.
Alongside Alt, the injury report reads like a difficult puzzle for the coaching staff. Left tackle Rashawn Slater is dealing with an ankle issue, while offensive lineman Trevor Penning remains out with a concussion. The defensive side is equally stretched. with safety Derwin James (hamstring). cornerback Donte Jackson (hamstring). left guard Kayode Awosika (fibula). and outside linebacker Khalil Mack—who was out for rest—all missing Wednesday’s session. Wide receiver Ladd McConkey also sat out due to a foot injury.
The roster’s depth is being tested even further by a lengthy list of players limited in their participation. The group includes cornerback Cam Hart (knee). fullback Alec Ingold (shoulder). wide receiver Quentin Johnston (chest). tight end Charlie Kolar (forearm). quarterback Trey Lance (groin). defensive back Deane Leonard (rib). fullback/defensive lineman Scott Matlock (foot). offensive lineman Branson Taylor (neck). wide receiver Brenen Thompson (quad). and defensive lineman Dalvin Tomlinson (hamstring).
With nearly half the roster hampered by ailments ranging from soft-tissue strains to concussions. the team must now prepare for a physical Sunday clash with a depleted rotation. The decision to keep Alt off injured reserve suggests a hope that his neck issue will be short-term. but for now. the reality of the training room far outweighs the tactical plans on the field.
Chargers Joe Alt NFL injury report Broncos vs Chargers NFL news Rashawn Slater Khalil Mack