Chargers stand pat, select massive offensive lineman with No. 5 pick

Alt was previously described as Jim “Harbaugh’s guy,” so this pick doesn’t come as a huge surprise. There was some thought that the team could look to trade back and pick up extra assets, and there was also a belief that they’d pursue a wide receiver to replace the departed Keenan Allen and Mike Williams. Instead, they’ve opted for OL help.

The run game will clearly be a higher priority for the Bolts this season, with the team hiring Greg Roman and reuniting the well-traveled OC with Gus Edwards and J.K. Dobbins. 

Alt will presumably be kicked to right tackle with the Chargers, as Rashawn Slater has been the Bolts’ LT since being a 2021 first-round pick. An Alt investment would stand to displace Trey Pipkins, the Bolts’ RT regular for the past two seasons.

A two-time first-team All-American, the 6-foot-8 Alt played left tackle for the Fighting Irish. Notre Dame LTs have been coveted prospects and moved to other spots in the pros. Zack Martin operated as a left tackle for the Division I-FBS independent; so did Mike McGlinchey. 

Alt has widely been considered the top offensive line in the draft, and he was considered one of the top non-QB prospects. Being selected at No. 5 is pretty much in line with most pre-draft mock drafts.

The team has invested heavily in offensive line help in recent years. An Alt selection represents the Bolts’ third O-line first-round pick in four years. In addition to Alt and Slater, the team has 2022 first-round guard Zion Johnson going into Year 3.