Los Angeles Chargers fans, breathe a sigh of relief. There's positive news on the offensive line front, as star tackles Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt are reportedly ahead of schedule in their recoveries from season-ending injuries suffered in 2025.

General Manager Joe Hortiz provided the encouraging update, stating, "I think they're ahead of schedule. Both are tracking well, and [I'm] looking forward to seeing them out there." This is crucial for a team looking to rebuild its identity and protect its franchise quarterback.

With the Chargers' offseason program kicking off, both players are expected to participate in some capacity. However, the team is wisely taking a cautious approach. "Coming back from injuries, you don't rush anything," Hortiz emphasized, noting the primary target is a full return by the start of training camp.

The injuries were significant setbacks. Joe Alt, the highly-touted 2024 first-round pick, saw his promising second season cut short to just six games due to an ankle injury, despite earning Pro Bowl honors. Veteran anchor Rashawn Slater suffered a ruptured patellar tendon during training camp, a tough injury for any lineman.

Regarding Slater's specific recovery, Hortiz was optimistic: "Everything indicator is he's ahead of schedule and doing really well... I look out the window, and he's out there working, moving around. I feel good about it."

Last season's rash of O-line injuries has underscored the importance of depth in the trenches. Hortiz acknowledged this, hinting that the Chargers could still target an offensive tackle in the upcoming draft. "If last year proved anything it's that you can never have too many tackles," he said, keeping the team's options open to ensure robust protection for the seasons ahead.