The Los Angeles Chargers will host the Houston Texans in Week 9 of the 2026 NFL season at SoFi Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for 1:05 p.m. PT. A key player to watch is offensive tackle Joe Alt, who returned in Week 8 after missing two games and delivered a strong performance at left tackle.
Alt was shifted to left tackle due to Rashawn Slater being placed on Injured Reserve. Despite the change, Alt did not allow any pressures against the Los Angeles Rams, marking the third time he has done so this season in a game he started and finished. He earned the best pass-blocking grade among all tackles that week with an 89.9 rating from Pro Football Focus. For the season, Alt’s pass-blocking efficiency stands at 98.8, ranking third among tackles with at least 150 pass-blocking snaps. In 169 pass-blocking attempts this season, he has allowed just four total pressures and zero sacks.
Chargers Head Coach Jim Harbaugh praised Alt’s ability to transition to left tackle, saying, “I thought he did a heck of a job moving over to left tackle and played like Joe Alt.” Alt emphasized the mental adjustment required for the position change, citing previous reps and trusting his experience.
Looking ahead, Alt and the Chargers’ offensive line face a significant challenge against the Texans’ pass rush led by edge rushers Will Anderson Jr., who leads the NFL with 7.5 sacks, and Danielle Hunter, who has 4.0 sacks this season. Alt commented on the Texans’ defensive strength: “It starts with their edges. They got a great edge group. Their whole front loves rushing the passer, and that’s where it starts. You got to protect the quarterback.”
CSB Take
Joe Alt’s effective shift to left tackle amidst Rashawn Slater’s injury sends a positive signal for the Los Angeles Chargers as they prepare for a tough test against the Houston Texans’ fierce pass rush. His top-tier pass-blocking performance and mental readiness fortify the Chargers’ offensive line at a crucial point in the season. How Alt handles this matchup will be crucial for preserving the team’s offensive stability and competitiveness moving forward.
Source: Original report
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