Los Angeles Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh announced the team’s offensive line plan on Friday, revealing Joe Alt will move from right tackle to left tackle due to Rashawn Slater’s season-ending knee injury. Trey Pipkins will take over the RT role.
Harbaugh acknowledged the impact of Slater’s loss, calling it a “gut punch” that took the wind out of the team. Despite this setback, Harbaugh is confident his team can adapt and overcome the loss. He praised Alt for his versatility, noting the 2024 first-round pick played on both sides during his college career.
Alt will join Zion Johnson, Brad Bozeman, projected Mekhi Becton, and Pipkins as the starting five. The coach emphasized that the team’s best lineup is currently in place, although nothing is set in stone. Harbaugh expressed confidence in Pipkins, who has started 42 games at offensive tackle throughout his career.
The preseason injury is a significant blow, but Harbaugh trusts his team to step up and adjust. He avoided clichéd phrases like “next man up,” instead emphasizing the team’s ability to adapt without Slater.
Source: https://www.nfl.com/news/jim-harbaugh-says-chargers-will-move-joe-alt-to-lt-following-rashawn-slater-injury