The NFL offseason continues to build momentum as the league approaches the 2026 NFL Draft. Teams have already made key free-agent signings, begun offseason workouts, and are now finalizing their draft boards.The Los Angeles Chargers spent much of last season without their two starting offensive tackles. Both Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater suffered season-ending injuries in 2025, dealing a significant blow to the offense.Their absence took a clear toll.

The Chargers’ offensive line struggled throughout the season, culminating in a lopsided road loss to the New England Patriots.MORE: Will Anderson, Houston Texans agree to NFL record-setting contract extensionNow, the team has received encouraging news. Both players have made positive progress in their recoveries.Los Angeles Chargers offensive tackle Rashawn Slater against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn ImagesChargers general manager Joe Horitz said Alt and Slater are expected to participate when the team begins offseason workouts next week—a major step forward in their return.

However, Horitz emphasized that the team will not rush either player back into full action.Their return not only supports their individual recovery timelines but also gives the Chargers a clearer picture of their offensive line depth heading into 2026. The team has already been linked to several interior offensive linemen, and having both starting tackles back strengthens that approach.Slater has worked his way back from a ruptured patellar tendon suffered in August, while Alt dealt with complications from an ankle sprain after attempting to return too early—ultimately ending his season.MORE: Jordyn Tyson has new NFL Draft stock ranking after private workoutThe Chargers have already made several offensive changes this offseason.

They parted ways with offensive coordinator Greg Roman and followed up with multiple free-agent additions.Los Angeles Chargers offensive tackle Joe Alt (76), quarterback Justin Herbert (10), guard Jamaree Salyer (68), fullback Scott Matlock (44), center Bradley Bozeman (75), guard Zion Johnson (77), and offensive tackle Rashawn Slater (70) during and NFL game against the Tennessee Titans at SoFi Stadium. Credit: Robert Hanashiro-Imagn ImagesNow, attention shifts to rebuilding the offensive line after a disappointing 2025 campaign—one largely impacted by the loss of their star tackles.Can the return of Alt and Slater elevate this unit and provide better protection for quarterback Justin Herbert? And will that improvement be enough to push the Chargers back into contention in the AFC?