Joe Alt, who was selected by the Los Angeles Chargers as the 5th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, had initially envisioned a different scenario for himself leading up to the draft. In an interview with the Minneapolis Star-Tribune shortly before the draft, Alt disclosed that he viewed the Tennessee Titans as the ideal fit for him. He highlighted Tennessee’s need for a left tackle and their acquisition of Bill Callahan, a highly esteemed offensive line coach and the father of Titans’ rookie head coach Brian Callahan.
Alt emphasized two key priorities: remaining at left tackle and the opportunity to work with Bill Callahan. Reflecting on his meeting with Coach Callahan in Tennessee, Alt remarked on the clarity and specificity of Callahan’s coaching style, appreciating the directness in outlining expectations and corrective measures. Alt considered Callahan’s coaching scheme to be highly effective and regarded him as the standout among all the coaches he had met during the draft process.
Regarding his position at left tackle, Alt and his camp expressed reservations about the Los Angeles Chargers, particularly due to the presence of Rashawn Slater in that position on the roster. This concern was underscored by discussions with individuals close to Alt, further solidifying their stance.
The preference for the Tennessee Titans over the Los Angeles Chargers was evident within the circle of Joe Alt. John Michael Schmitz, who trained alongside Alt during his pre-draft preparations and now plays for the New York Giants, expressed a strong desire to team up with Alt. However, it was noted by former Vikings lineman and offensive line coach Alex Boone that the Giants did not have a pressing need for a left tackle.
Boone openly stated that Alt and his inner circle were hoping for Alt to be selected one pick after the Chargers, emphasizing the belief in Alt’s potential as a top-tier left tackle. Joe’s father, John Alt, shed light on Joe’s mindset, highlighting his discomfort with uncertainty and his preference for structure and the opportunity to dive into work.
Despite the desired scenario, Joe Alt is now fully committed to the Los Angeles Chargers. While many assume he will slot in as the right tackle opposite Slater, head coach Jim Harbaugh has indicated that the team will place the best player in the position that suits the team best, leaving the possibility open for Alt to compete for the left tackle position.
