​The Chargers believed they had discovered a franchise cornerstone when they selected Joe Alt with the fifth overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Fast forward two seasons, and that belief appears to be well founded. ESPN’s annual rankings of the NFL’s top offensive tackles, determined by votes from league executives, coaches, and scouts, placed Alt firmly in the top 10. That placement reinforces the notion that he is rapidly becoming one of the league’s premier offensive linemen, even as he enters just his third NFL season. Notably, Rashawn Slater earned honorable mention, underscoring the Chargers’ recognition as home to one of the NFL’s best tackle duos.
Alt’s ascent should not surprise anyone who followed him during the 2025 season. After a standout rookie year, he further refined his craft, emerging as an even more polished pass protector while continuing to dominate in the running game. His blend of size, athleticism, and technique has made life easier for Justin Herbert, who has often faced inconsistent protection throughout his career. One of Alt’s defining strengths is his composure against elite pass rushers. He rarely looks overwhelmed and plays with the confidence of a seasoned veteran—an impressive feat for a player who arrived in the league at just 21 years old.
His progress also reflects the vision Jim Harbaugh has fostered. Harbaugh has long prioritized success at the line of scrimmage, and the Chargers’ substantial investments toward achieving that goal are paying dividends. Alt has become a central pillar in turning that vision into reality. The recognition of Slater as an honorable mention should not be overlooked either. After missing the 2025 season with a patellar tendon injury, questions naturally arose about whether he could return to his previous level of play. The fact that league evaluators still regard him among the NFL’s elite tackles speaks volumes about the respect he has earned throughout his career.
If Slater can reclaim his All-Pro form while Alt continues his rapid rise, the Chargers could boast the NFL’s best tackle duo. That level of depth is a luxury few teams possess and could significantly impact the offense this season. For the Chargers, everything begins with protecting Herbert. Whether it’s providing him with extra time to push the ball downfield or opening running lanes for Omarion Hampton, elite tackle play elevates the entire offense and makes it more dangerous.
Alt has evolved from a highly touted draft pick into one of the league’s fastest-rising stars. At this juncture, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him climb even higher in next season’s rankings. With him still just entering his third year, the most unsettling thought for the rest of the league is that he may just be getting started, a development that promises to redefine the Chargers’ offense for years to come.