The Chargers have already ruled out LT Joe Alt for Sunday's game as he deals with an ankle injury. RG Mekhi Becton is listed as questionable as he attempts to clear the concussion protocol. Becton's full practice on Friday was his first since initially suffering the concussion vs. Denver.
The Chargers have options this week for how they choose to replace Alt. Austin Deculus has taken over the tackle spot in Alt's absence. Becton last played left tackle for the Jets in 2023 before he was converted to the right guard spot in Philadelphia.
Backup guard Jamaree Salyer of course started at left tackle in the 2022 campaign after Rashawn Slater suffered a season-ending bicep injury. Salyer also started at that spot last season in Week 4 vs. the Chiefs. Both Salyer and Deculus have been seen working at left tackle in practices this week.
Chargers HC Jim Harbaugh knows the teams' starting offensive line vs. the Commanders, but won't reveal it.
HC Jim Harbaugh was asked at Friday's media availability if he had an idea on who was going to be starting along the offensive line Sunday. "Yeah, we have a good idea," Harbaugh started. "We'll just keep that to ourselves. No sense in releasing that information, but we have a good plan. Good idea of it."
Harbaugh was asked about moving Becton to tackle based on his history: "We have thought about it, yes."
Harbaugh said that Becton is questionable because he is still in the concussion protocol. Considering that Becton had a full practice session on Friday, he seems likely to be able to clear the final step of the protocol before the Commanders game.
The fate of Joe Alt also still hangs in the balance. Harbaugh said that he didn't know whether Alt would go on the designated for return IR or not. The Chargers traditionally make their IR and roster transactions on the Saturday before a Sunday game. It's likely we'll know by later this afternoon.
Salyer is probably the betting favorite to start at left tackle on Sunday with Becton's return, but the Chargers certainly have options to choose from. We'll find out a few hours before the Chargers/Commanders 1:25 PM PT kickoff.