Height/Weight: 6-4/255
| Birthdate: 6/18/1980
| Birthplace: Detroit, MI, USA
| Team: San Diego
| College: Kent State
| NFL Experience: 11
| Owned/Started%: 100/61 | Average Draft Position: 46.42
News: Chargers tight end Antonio Gates hauled in his seventh touchdown reception of the season in Week 17 against the Raiders. Gates was on the receiving end of a 11-yard strike from Philip Rivers in the second quarter. He finished with two receptions for 15 yards in the 24-21 win.
Analysis: Gates did not have a great season for Fantasy owners as he got off to a very slow start this year. However, he was able to finish strong and has now hauled in at least seven TD receptions in each of his last nine seasons. While there are wholesale changes expected in San Diego next season, Gates still figures to be part of the team's plans as he is under contract until 2015. Consider the veteran a viable low-end No. 1 TE heading into 2013.
News: Chargers tight end Antonio Gates has a touchdown history against his Week 17 opponent -- the Raiders. Gates has 10 touchdowns in 19 career games against the division foe but was held out of the end zone when the two teams met back in Week 1. However, he hauled in four receptions for 43 yards in that contest and will be facing an Oakland defense that is allowing an average of 54.6 receiving yards and 8.2 Fantasy points to opposing TEs on the year.
Analysis: Gates has been a major disappointment this season but has put together a nice little scoring streak at the end of the year. He has found the end zone in each of his last two games and has scored in two of his last three meetings against the division foe. While Gates receptions and receiving yards are both down this season, he needs only one more touchdown reception to reach at least nine TDs for the ninth consecutive season. Consider the veteran a viable start in most formats this week.
News: San Diego tight end Antonio Gates finished with two receptions for 44 yards and a touchdown during the Chargers' 27-17 victory over the Jets in Week 16. Gates was targeted only three times by quarterback Philip Rivers, but one of those looks went for a 34-yard touchdown catch in the third quarter. It was the second time this season he posted a touchdown in back-to-back games and he now has six total scores. Gates' score also marked the 82nd touchdown catch of his career, snapping a tie with Lance Alworth for the franchise lead. "He's a very special person and a very special player," coach Norv Turner said. "I've been fortunate to be around Hall of Fame guys who have done some incredible things. He's right up there with them."
Analysis: Gates' overall numbers have been down this season, but has benefited from a late surge in the end zone. "There is no better feeling than to score and have 10 other guys run up to you and congratulate you," he said. He is now just one touchdown shy of finishing with at least seven scores for the ninth consecutive season despite registering a career-low average of 10.6 yards per catch. Gates will attempt to hit that touchdown total during Week 17 against Oakland, a team he has scored against three times over the past five meetings.
News: With San Diego quarterback Philip Rivers experiencing ineffectiveness this season, the poor numbers have trickled down to some of the other Chargers players, and tight end Antonio Gates is no exception. Heading into Week 16 against the Jets, Gates has managed just 45 receptions for 479 yards this season, his lowest mark since his rookie campaign (389). He needs 21 receiving yards to reach 500 for the ninth consecutive season, but faces a tough challenge Sunday as New York ranks second in the NFL defending the pass (191.1 yards allowed).
Analysis: Gates has also struggled to reach the end zone at the consistent pace he has displayed throughout his career and halted a four-game scoreless streak -- matching his longest drought out of the season -- last week against Carolina. It was just his fifth touchdown of the year and he will now attempt to post scores in back-to-back games for the second time this season. The Jets are surrendering an average of 6.5 Fantasy points per game to opposing tight ends and have not allowed a score to the position since Week 8 against Miami. Consider Gates an adequate option in deeper formats for Sunday's game.
News: Chargers tight end Antonio Gates found the end zone for the fifth time this season, and the first time in five games, in Week 15 against the Panthers. He hauled in a 9-yard scoring strike from quarterback Philip Rivers in the fourth quarter and ended up with four catches for 31 yards in the 31-7 loss. It was his 81st career touchdown, which matches Hall of Famer Lance Alworth for first place all-time in franchise history. Gates was targeted a team-high six times and finished second on San Diego in receiving behind wideout Malcom Floyd (39 yards). “To be mentioned in the same category as a guy like Lance, who has obviously paved the way for guys like myself and guys before me, it’s definitely an honor to be in that situation and be among the elites,” said Gates.
Analysis: Gates had just two grabs for 14 yards in the first half Sunday but his touchdown late in the game salvaged his day for owners. With his 479 yards receiving thus far, he is on pace for his worst season since his rookie campaign but his five scores keep him relevant in Fantasy. Gates will look to find the end zone again in Week 16 against the Jets so continue to view the 32-year-old as a viable option in the majority of formats.
News: Chargers tight end Antonio Gates has been held out of the end zone four straight games and will be looking to score in Week 15 against the Panthers. Carolina ranks 12th in the league in pass defense, giving up under 228 yards per contest, and has allowed an average of 7.8 Fantasy points to opposing tight ends, including six touchdowns.
Analysis: Tight ends are averaging over 50 yards receiving against the Panthers thus far and if that holds true Sunday, Gates will be in for his best performance since Week 10, which also happens to be the last time he scored. Gates is on pace for his worst campaign since his rookie year but is on the verge of posting 500 yards receiving for the ninth straight year. Still, he has been a disappoint in Fantasy for much of 2012 so with most owners in the playoffs, look to a more reliable option than Gates for Week 15.
News: Chargers tight end Antonio Gates finished with three catches for 31 yards Week 14 at Pittsburgh. He was targeted eight times and his longest reception went 13 yards. One of those eight targets was a 33-yard pass play into the end zone on the second drive, but quarterback Philip Rivers overthrew Gates.
Analysis: Gates has 41 catches for 448 yards and four touchdowns in 12 games. Those numbers just aren't cutting it for Fantasy owners. He hasn't scored a touchdown in his last four games and doesn't have a 100-yard game this season. One of the main reasons for his down campaign is defenses are paying more attention to him. However, another reason is Gates just isn't the playmaking tight end he once was. He is 32 years old and just doesn't have the athleticism he once possessed. Gates is nothing more than a low-end Fantasy option heading into Week 15 vs. Carolina.
News: Chargers tight end Antonio Gates has a good history against the Steelers, who will be San Diego's Week 14 opponent. In six career games against the AFC North opponent, Gates has totaled 29 catches for 373 yards and four touchdowns. One of his best games came in 2009 at Pittsburgh, when Gates totaled nine catches for 124 yards and two touchdowns. Tight ends average 42.3 receiving yards and six Fantasy points per week against Pittsburgh, which is tied for the sixth-lowest average in the NFL. Tight ends have four touchdowns against Pittsburgh and only one in the last eight games.
Analysis: While Gates has managed to stay off the injury report for most of the season, his production in 2012 has been very disappointing. He has just 38 catches for 417 yards and four touchdowns in 11 games. Some of it has to do with defenses making Gates a priority and some of it has to do with Gates' demise as a player. He's just not the standout player he once was. While Gates has a strong history against the Steelers, he remains a low-end Fantasy starter Week 14.
News: After catching just two passes for 13 yards his last time out, Chargers tight end Antonio Gates was able to get back on track in Week 13 against the Bengals. He caught six passes for 49 yards in the 20-13 loss. He had a long reception of 19 and averaged 8.2 yards per grab. Gates, who was targeted eight times, finished second on San Diego in receiving behind wideouts Danario Alexander (102 yards) and Malcom Floyd (61 yards) in the defeat.
Analysis: Gates had not been very productive for owners in recent weeks and while his performance Sunday was nothing to write home about, at least he was able to come up with more than two grabs. The 32-year-old has definitely shown some signs of slowing down this season but still remains a solid target for quarterback Philip Rivers, especially in the red zone. Gates will be going up against one of the tougher defenses in the league in the Steelers in Week 14 but no matter the matchup, he remains a viable option in most Fantasy formats.
News: Chargers tight end Antonio Gates has caught just four passes for 30 yards in the previous two games and will look to get back on track in Week 13 against the Bengals. There's a good chance he might as Cincinnati has allowed an average of 7.9 Fantasy points to opposing tight ends, including five touchdowns, despite ranking eighth in the league in pass defense.
Analysis: Gates needs one more score to tie Lance Alworth (81) for the most receiving touchdowns in franchise history and has a favorable matchup Sunday. Cincinnati has surrendered fewer than four catches to tight ends just once thus far while giving up an average of 58.5 yards per game. While Gates gas had a down campaign, there's always the potential for him to go off so keep the 32-year-old active in all Fantasy formats for Week 13.
News: Chargers tight end Antonio Gates netted only two receptions for 13 yards during San Diego's 16-13 overtime loss to Baltimore in Week 12. It was the second straight game Gates finished with only two catches and less than 20 yards as he averaged a meager 6.5 yards per reception. Fellow tight end Randy McMichael also recorded two catches for 11 yards as he surprisingly finished with more targets than Gates (three to two).
Analysis: Gates' recent disappearing act has been hard to explain as he had served as one of quarterback Philip Rivers' favorite targets throughout the duo's time together. But Gates has been on the receiving end of just six total passes over the past two games as he's failed to top 20 yards in back-to-back outings for the first time in his career. Fantasy owners can hope for a quick rebound in Week 13 against a Cincinnati defense that entered Sunday allowing the fifth-most Fantasy points per game to opposing tight ends (9.2).
News: San Diego tight end Antonio Gates will enter Week 12 against Baltimore in the hopes of reverting back to the solid production he displayed during the beginning of the month. Gates tallied a touchdown catch in each of his first two games of November before his production came to a screeching halt last Sunday in a loss at Denver when he posted just two receptions for 17 yards. The Ravens own the league's 23rd-ranked pass defense and are allowing 249.9 yards per game through the air this season.
Analysis: It may have been during the height of his Fantasy prowess, but Gates has turned in a solid showing against Baltimore during his career. He amassed 105 receiving yards against Ravens during a matchup in the 2007 campaign, which is somewhat noteworthy as he's posted only one such performance over the past two years. Gates also needs just one more touchdown catch to match Lance Alworth for the most in team history. The Ravens are yielding an average of 6.6 Fantasy points per game to opposing tight ends this year, but just one has crossed the goal line. Still, Gates should remain active in most Fantasy formats for Week 12.
News: Chargers tight end Antonio Gates was not much of a factor in Week 11 against the Broncos. Gates finished with two receptions for 17 yards in the 30-23 defeat and was unable to find the end zone. One of his receptions actually came on a screen pass and he did record a catch in the fourth quarter. Danario Alexander led the team in receptions as he finished with seven catches for 96 yards and a pair of scores.
Analysis: Gates opened the game up with a 13 yard reception but then disappeared for a while. His only other reception came on a screen in the third quarter and he was only targeted four times the entire game. To be fair, Denver did a nice job double covering him most plays, but this is the kind of year it has been for the 32-year-old. He has only posted double-digit Fantasy totals in three of his 10 games and is on pace to finish with his lowest reception total in quite some time. Still, he remains one of Philip Rivers' main options in the passing game, so leave him active in most formats heading into Week 12 against the Ravens.
News: Chargers tight end Antonio Gates will be looking to extend his scoring streak to three straight games in Week 10 against the Broncos. Gates has found the end zone in each of his last two games and has racked up seven receptions for 100 yards over that stretch. Denver enters the contest allowing an average of 229 passing yards per game. The Broncos have surrendered 16 touchdowns through the air while yielding an average of 11.3 Fantasy points to opposing TEs on the season, which ranks 31st overall. Gates hauled in six receptions for 81 yards and two scores in the team's lone meeting earlier this year.
Analysis: After getting off to a very slow start this season, Gates has finally started to perform like most expected him too over the last few weeks. The 32-year-old has scored all four of his touchdowns over the last four games and has hauled in 15 receptions for 195 yards over that stretch. Now the veteran looks to have a favorable matchup on tap this week as the Broncos have been among the worst in the league at defending tight ends. Denver has surrendered a league-leading eight TDs to opposing TEs on the year and five of those have come over the past four weeks. Fantasy owners should continue to roll with Gates as a must-start option in Week 11.
News: Earlier this season Antonio Gates looked like a past-prime tight end. But he's turned his year around and scored in his third game in four at San Diego in Week 10. Gates caught a 13-yard strike from Philip Rivers in the middle of the end zone for a first-half score. He finished with 57 yards and the TD on four catches, getting targeted five times.
Analysis: Don't look now but Gates has four touchdowns with 15 grabs for 195 yards in his last four games. That sounds like the tight end we've come to know. He'll next take on the Broncos in Denver, an opponents he posted two touchdowns against earlier this year. Denver is among the worst in the league at defending tight ends and with Rivers expected to throw a ton, Gates should remain a must-start in Week 11.
News: Chargers tight end Antonio Gates probably has high hopes for a big game on Sunday when he takes on the Buccaneers. Tampa Bay allowed two touchdowns to tight end Brandon Myers in Week 9 and have given three scores to tight ends over the last three weeks. Gates also has three touchdowns over his last three games -- one last week vs. the Chiefs and two in Week 6 against the Broncos. He is looking for his first touchdown on the road.
Analysis: Gates is also looking for his third game with more than three catches -- he had four grabs for 43 yards in Week 1 and six for 81 yards against the Broncos. Every other game he's had three catches or fewer. While he's not dominating defenses like he has in the past, Gates remains a solid short-area and red-zone target for Philip Rivers. You'd have to have another really good tight end to consider sitting Gates in Week 10.
News: Chargers tight end Antonio Gates came out strong in the early going Thursday against the Chiefs in Week 9. He brought in two passes on the opening drive for 35 yards, including a 14-yard touchdown grab to put the Chargers up early. He was quiet from then on, finishing with just one more 8-yard catch, but it was still enough to stand as one of his most productive games of the season. Gates brought in three passes for 43 yards and the touchdown was just his third of the year. The Chargers would win the game 31-13. Gates brought in all three passes thrown his way by Philip Rivers.
Analysis: Gates has now scored three times in the last three games, though that does feature one totally nondescript two-catch performance in Week 8 against the Browns. Still, he is clearly starting to produce a more. That is a good sign after his extremely slow start to the season. Hopefully Gates stays on track moving forward, as he has been a huge disappointment this season. He will try to keep rolling in Week 10 against Tampa Bay. The Buccaneers have allowed just two tight ends to score this season, but Gates has found some of his old form and should be considered a viable starting tight end in all Fantasy formats moving forward.
News: Usually reliable tight end Antonio Gates has been less so this season with just two touchdowns and both coming in the game Week 6 game against Denver. Gates came back after the Week 7 bye and struggled against the Browns last week to the tune of two catches for 14 yards as the Chargers managed just six points all game. Gates heads into Week 9 at home against Kansas City on Thursday night looking to prove he's still got it. Gates caught three passes for just 59 yards in the first game against K.C. this year back in Week 4. He has 24 catches for 381 yards and three touchdowns in his last five games against Kansas City, but his last TD came back in 2010.
Analysis: Gates has one huge Fantasy game under his belt this season and has otherwise been a supreme disappointment. Usually one of the best tight ends in the NFL, Gates has been anything but reliable this year. The 59 yards he went for against Kansas City Week 4 is actually his second highest total of the season as he has been unable to hook up with Philip Rivers consistently. What is more, the Chiefs have been good at stopping tight ends this season. They haven't allowed a TE touchdown since Week 3 and no TE has topped the 59 yards Gates mustered against them. All that said, we still have to continue to rely upon Gates' services in most Fantasy formats. Consider him a No. 1 Fantasy option as long as he is the top TE for San Diego.
News: Chargers tight end Antonio Gates resurgence was short-lived, as he fell back to mediocrity in Week 8 against the Browns. Coming off a breakout performance in Week 6, the Browns limited him to his worst game of the season Sunday. Gates finished with just two catches for 14 yards, his worst performance since 2010. The Chargers went on to lose the game, 7-6. He was targeted just four times in the game despite the Chargers throwing the ball 34 times.
Analysis: We were really hoping Gates’ two-touchdown performance in Week 6 was the beginning of his season being turned around. If Week 8 is any indication, the days of Gates being a consistent Fantasy star are long gone. At this point, he has more games below 50 yards receiving (two) than above this season (five). There is no sign of injury at this point, so the 32-year-old seems to have just lost a step. Gates is on pace for 48 catches and 544 yards this season, totals that would easily be his worst since 2003, when he was a raw rookie still learning the position. Gates has a strong track record against the Chiefs, his Week 9 opponent, with 12 touchdowns in 15 career games. It is hard to sit Gates given his potential, but he should be considered more of a low-end Fantasy starting option for Thursday during Week 9 until he proves his worth again.
News: Chargers tight end Antonio Gates finally rewarded Fantasy owners who have been holding on with a two-touchdown performance in Week 6. He will look to build on that in Week 8 against Cleveland, after a week of rest in the bye week. The Browns have done a fine job covering opposing tight ends this season, allowing just two of them to reach double figures in Fantasy scoring through the first seven games of the season.
Analysis: Gates torched the Browns for eight catches and 167 yards the last time they played, but that was back in 2009. Cleveland has been strong against tight ends this season, but you cannot risk sitting Gates after he finally paid off. With a full week of rest, Gates should be in terrific shape and ready to buck the Browns’ season-long trend. Consider him a high-end Fantasy option in all formats for Week 8.
News: Chargers tight end Antonio Gates was finally able to find the end zone in Week 6 against the Broncos. Gates hauled in his first two touchdown receptions of the season in 35-24 defeat, including 15-yard scoring strike from Philip Rivers in the first quarter. He was also on the receiving end of a 11-yard dart from Rivers just before halftime and finished with a season-best six receptions for 81 yards. Gates was targeted a team-high 10 times in the loss and had a long of 23 yards while averaging 13.5 yards per reception.
Analysis: After sleep walking through the first five games, Gates finally showed up Monday night and rewarded the 77 percent of Fantasy owners in all CBSSports.com leagues who have stuck with him. The 32-year-old looked a bit more spry against the Broncos as he was able to work his way open for most of the game and he could have turned in an even bigger performance if Rivers would not have imploded in the second half. Still, owners have to be happy with Gates' latest effort but he will now have to wait two weeks to get back on the field as San Diego has a bye in Week 7. However, the Chargers will then head out to Cleveland to face the Browns in Week 8 and that looks to be very a favorable matchup for Gates. While he may not be back as a must-start option just yet, Gates appears to be working his way toward becoming a reliable Fantasy option again.
News: Chargers tight end Antonio Gates is off to his worst start through the first five games of the season since his rookie season a decade ago. He will try to get back on track in Week 6 against the Broncos Monday. Due to injuries, Gates has faced the AFC West foe just once over the past two seasons, in November last season> He finished the game with six catches for 49 yards and a touchdown in a 16-13 loss.
Analysis: The Broncos began the season defending tight ends very poorly, allowing a touchdown in each of the first three games. Since then, they have buckled down, allowing just a six catches for 66 yards over the last two games. They held the Patriots’ Rob Gronkowski to just four catches for 35 yards. Gates is still worth starting in most formats, but he is clearly no longer a must-start Fantasy option. Consider him a viable starting Fantasy option for Week 6.
News: Chargers tight end Antonio Gates’ disappointing campaign continued in Week 5 against the Saints Sunday. Gates was limited to just three catches for 19 yards, despite being targeted seven times in the passing game. The Chargers lost the game, 31-24. He has now yet to top the 60-yard mark this season and has been held out of the end zone in each contest.
Analysis: For a period of eight years, Gates was arguably the top tight end in the NFL. From 2004-2011, Gates topped 60 yards 61 times in 117 games. He failed to reach that mark just in four games in a row just three times. This may turn out to be a minor bump on the road to another productive season, however the 32-year-old has dealt with plenty of injuries over the years. The evidence is starting to show that Gates might be hitting a late-career fade. That being said, he still has 11 games to right the ship this season. Week 6 against the Broncos might present his best chance, as they have allowed three touchdowns to opposing tight ends this season. His upside still makes him worthy of starting in most formats, but Gates is clearly no longer a must-start Fantasy option for Monday night.
News: San Diego tight end Antonio Gates has been one of the biggest disappointments in the league through the season’s quarter mark. The eight-time Pro-Bowler has just 10 catches for 124 yards through three games, and has failed to find the end zone. Week 5 might contain the answer to his struggles, though, as the Chargers get ready to play the Saints Sunday night. Gates has four touchdowns in two career games against New Orleans, with 11 catches for 152 yards overall.
Analysis: The Saints have been one of the worst defenses in the league against the pass this season, though they have been surprisingly stout against tight ends. They have held opposing tight ends to an average of just 4 Fantasy points per game, the stingiest mark in the league. That may have to less to do with a particular ability to rein in tight ends and more to do with the fact that they have been getting torched routinely by every single wide receiver they have faced. The Chargers essentially use Gates like a wide receiver at times, so he might be able to find some success. Despite the slow start, Fantasy owners should keep him active in all formats for Week 5.
News: San Diego tight end Antonio Gates was limited in his production on Sunday of Week 4 at Kansas City. Gates ended up leading the Chargers in receiving yards, but did that with just 59 yards on three grabs from quarterback Philip Rivers. Gates was targeted three times in the 37-20 win. Gates had a long grab of 33 yards. Only Jackie Battle had more catches (4) for the Chargers in the game.
Analysis: Gates has yet to record double-digit Fantasy points in a game this season and that is because he's yet to score his first touchdown for the Chargers. He continues to be targeted heavily by Rivers, but the duo has been unable to find pay dirt to this point. That could change heading into Week 5 at New Orleans. The Saints have been a terrible defense to this point so we would continue to start Gates in all Fantasy formats. We know that first TD is just around the corner.
News: Chargers tight end Antonio Gates is looking for a turnaround performance heading into Week 4 at Kansas City in more ways than one. On the surface, Gates caught just three passes for 22 yards last week despite being targeted seven times against the Falcons. He'll look to get back on track, but also was held to limited production the last time he played in K.C. last year. Meeting Kansas City in October last year, Gates managed four catches for 73 yards but failed to score. He had 12 grabs for 194 yards and three touchdowns in the two games prior against the Chiefs.
Analysis: The 32-year-old Gates certainly might be slowing down at this point in his career and did miss Week 2 with a rib injury. He returned last week but wasn't much of a factor for quarterback Philip Rivers. He could certainly turn things around Week 4 in Kansas City against a team allowing the ninth-most Fantasy points per game to the tight end position thus far this year. Jimmy Graham, Scott Chandler and Tony Gonzalez have all scored against them this season and Gates wants to be added to that list. We believe Gates can turn it around Week 4 and consider him a solid start across the board.
News: Chargers tight end Antonio Gates was not much of a factor in Week 3 against the Falcons. Gates finished with just three receptions for 22 yards in the 27-3 defeat and had a long of 14 yards. He averaged just 7.3 yards per reception and was targeted seven times by Philip Rivers. Malcom Floyd led the Chargers in receiving with three receptions for 52 yards.
Analysis: Gates final reception of the game went for just a yard but it made him the the fifth tight end in league history with 600 career receptions. However, that was about the only positive note the 32-year-old could take from his performance. Gates had several drops Sunday afternoon and seemed to be a bit out of sync with Rivers on several plays. While he supposedly entered this season in the best shape of his career, Fantasy owners have yet to reap the benefits from that as Gates has turned in two underwhelming performances to start the year. However, he remains a favorite target of Rivers and should see plenty of passes thrown in his direction when the Chargers head to Kansas City to face the Chiefs in Week 4. Gates has hauled in 12 touchdowns in 14 career games against the division foe so consider him a viable start in most formats next week.
News: Chargers tight end Antonio Gates has been ruled active for Week 3 against the Falcons. Gates, who missed San Diego's last contest with a rib injury, was able to practice in full this past week. He will attempt to build on his Week 1 performance when he tallied four receptions for 43 yards -- just the fourth time in the past 15 games he's failed to top 50 yards.
Analysis: Gates was able to get back on the field Sunday and could make a bit of history in his matchup and he needs three catches to become the fifth tight end in league history with 600 career receptions. The Falcons have been tough on tight ends as they have limited opposing TEs to an average of 8.0 Fantasy points on the season. However, Gates remains one of Philip Rivers favorite targets and should see plenty of passes thrown in his direction. Get him active in all formats against Atlanta.
News: Chargers tight end Antonio Gates (ribs) is listed as probable on the team's injury report and is expected to play during Week 3 against Atlanta, U-T San Diego reports. Gates, who did not play last Sunday after suffering a rib-cage injury during the season opener against Oakland, was a full participant in practice the past two days. The eight-time Pro Bowler was limited on Wednesday. He will attempt to build on his Week 1 performance when he tallied four receptions for 43 yards -- just the fourth time in the past 15 games he's failed to top 50 yards.
Analysis: Gates was a surprise inactive last week, but that doesn't appear to be a possibility this Sunday as he attempts to move his name further into NFL lore. He needs three catches to become the fifth tight end in league history with 600 career receptions. The Falcons have limited opposing tight ends to minimal reception totals, but Kansas City's Kevin Boss did reach the end zone in Week 1. Overall, Atlanta is permitting an average of 8.0 Fantasy points per game to the position this season. As long as he's active, Fantasy owners should consider him as a high-end option for Week 3.
News:U-T San Diego reports Chargers tight end Antonio Gates (ribs) practiced for a second straight day Thursday, increasing his chances of playing Week 3 vs. Atlanta.
Analysis: Chargers coach Norv Turner said Wednesday Gates' participation in practice throughout the week will be determined by how his body reacts to getting back on the field, but he has been encouraged by his progress. It seems Gates is on track to return Week 3, but continue to track his progress. If active, Gates is obviously a viable Fantasy start in all formats.
News: Chargers tight end Antonio Gates was in pads and participating in practice Wednesday, after missing Week 2 against the Titans with rib soreness. While he was not a full participant in practice, the San Diego Union-Tribune reports that he is expected to play. Coach Norv Turner says Gates' participation in practice throughout the week will be determined by how his body reacts to getting back on the field, but he said he was "moving fast" and "looked good" in pads.
Analysis: Gates was a surprise scratch for Week 2, and his backup Dante Rosario blew up for three touchdowns in his absence. Hopefully Gates can get back on the field this week, as he is just three catches short of reaching 600 for his career. The team is taking things day by day with Gates, but if he is able to make it through the week without issue, Fantasy owners should have no qualms about keeping him active.
News: The Chargers' official website reports tight end Antonio Gates, who sat out Week 2 with a rib injury, returned to practice Wednesday. San Diego hosts Atlanta in Week 3.
Analysis: This is a very good sign Gates is already back at practice. Coach Norv Turner didn't sound overly optimistic about his status Monday, but he said Gates was just day to day. Continue to track his progress, but if Gates is back Week 3, then he is a viable Fantasy start.
News: Chargers tight end Antonio Gates was ruled inactive for Week 2 against the Titans due to a rib injury. Gates was limited in practice for most of the week due to his ailment but did practice in full on Friday. Randy McMichael got the start in his place.
Analysis: Most assumed Gates would be able to play in Week 2, especially after he practice Friday, but the team decided to hold him out. However, he is expected to be back on the field for Week 3 against Atlanta. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on his status moving forward to make sure there are no changes in his status. Gates can be considered a high-end option in all formats as long as he is healthy heading into Week 3 against the Falcons
News: Chargers tight end Antonio Gates returned to practice Friday for the first time since suffering a rib injury during Monday's game against Oakland, according to U-T San Diego. Gates was absent from practice the previous two days, but was able to run routes and catch passes without issue on Friday as the team prepares to face Tennessee in Week 2. He was able to finish the season opener despite briefly departing in the third quarter and venturing to the locker room. Gates was officially listed as questionable on the team's injury report. "There’s no real cure for it," Gates said about the injury. "From what I understand, all you can really do is put ice on it. It hurts and it’s difficult to play with at the same time. We’re going to try to make that decision on Sunday on whether or not I can go play."
Analysis: Gates' absence is practice this week may have been for precautionary reasons as he was on the field for 54 of the team's 58 snaps against the Raiders. The 32-year-old is certainly no stranger to injuries recently as he has played a full season just once in the previous three seasons. But when healthy, he remains a dynamic player for the Chargers and a tough mismatch for opponents. In fact, the last time he faced the Titans, he posted 123 yards and a touchdown on five receptions. Tennessee was also burned for 12 catches and 119 yards and two touchdowns against tight ends in a loss to New England during Week 1. He is not expected to miss Sunday's game and should be viewed as a high-end option in all Fantasy formats.
News:U-T San Diego initially reported Chargers tight end Antonio Gates, who sat out Wednesday nursing a rib injury, returned to practice Thursday. However, they retracted their report and said Gates wasn't at practice. San Diego hosts Tennessee Week 2. He says he is just 'sore' after taking a shot to the ribs, and does expect to play Sunday.
Analysis: Well, we just witnessed the pitfalls of Internet reporting sometimes. Our hopes were up for a second about Gates, but now we have to continue to keep tabs on his progress. Even if Gates misses the practice week, there is still a chance he could play Sunday. He has done it before. If Gates is active Week 2, then he is a must-start Fantasy tight end.
News:U-T San Diego reports Chargers tight end Antonio Gates (rib) did not practice Wednesday as the team prepares for Week 2 vs. Tennessee.
Analysis: Gates suffered the rib injury Week 1, but he managed to finish out the game. Gates has been on the injury report plenty in his career. There have even been times where he doesn't practice and still plays. If Gates is active Week 2, then he is a must-start Fantasy tight end. Continue to track his progress.
News: Chargers tight end Antonio Gates appeared to shake off a rib injury in Week 1 against the Raiders. Gates left the contest in the third quarter and was taken back to the locker room with an apparent rib injury. He was able to quickly return and finished with four receptions for 43 yards in the 22-14 win. Gates' longest reception went for 17 yards and he was targeted a team-high eight times by quarterback Philip Rivers.
Analysis: Gates supposedly entered the season completely healthy and in the best shape of his career, so this is not the type of start owners were hoping for. While he did come back and finish out the game, Gates will most likely wind up on the team's injury report this week, which is something that will be bear monitoring. As far as his performance goes, Gates played pretty well but had a few passes slip through his fingers, including one in the end zone in the second quarter. Still, with Vincent Jackson now in Tampa Bay, he was clearly Rivers' first option on most plays. That trend should continue moving forward, albeit Gates will need to stay healthy. Assuming he is, the 32-year-old can be considered a high-end option in all formats heading into Week 2 against the Titans. Tennessee surrendered 264 passing yards to the Patriots in Week 1.
News: Chargers tight end Antonio Gates was able to return to action during Week 1 against the Raiders. Gates left briefly in the third quarter with a rib injury but was able to quickly return. He has hauled in three receptions for 32 yards thus far.
Analysis: Gates was quickly able to return Monday night, so his injury was apparently not that serious. Hopefully he can contribute over the last quarter and a half and build on the 32 receiving yards he has racked up thus far. Gates can be considered a high-end option when healthy.
News: Chargers tight end Antonio Gates left Week 1 against the Raiders with a rib injury. gates seemed to sustain the injury while hauling in a 5-yard reception from Philip Rivers in the third quarter. His return is listed as questionable.
Analysis: Gates was seen running back to the locker room most likely to get X-rays. Hopefully he can get back on the field before the game is over and build on the three receptions for 32 yards he has posted thus far. Gates can be considered a high-end option in all formats when healthy.
News: Chargers tight end Antonio Gates enters Week 1 against the Raiders with 10 touchdowns in 18 career games against the division foe. Oakland ranked 27th in the league against the pass a year ago, giving up just over 251 yards per contest, and allowed an average of 7.8 Fantasy points to opposing tight ends. Gates caught 10 passes for 160 yards and a score in two games against the Raiders last season.
Analysis: Gates has been limited due to injury the last two seasons but continues to be one of the more productive tight ends in Fantasy when on the field. He has looked healthy so far in 2012 and could be in for a resurgent campaign. With Vincent Jackson no longer in San Diego, the 32-year-old will be the favorite target of Philip Rivers and should start the season with a bang against the Raiders. Oakland allowed seven touchdowns to tight ends a year ago so consider Gates a must-start Fantasy option for Week 1.
News: Chargers tight end Antonio Gates got back on the field for Thursday’s preseason finale against the 49ers, in order to make up for the loss of reps during the team’s previous game against the Vikings. Gates needed just the first quarter to show that he is in midseason form, finishing with three catches for 44 yards. The 32-year-old finished the preseason with six catches for 78 yards and one touchdown in very limited playing time.
Analysis: Age and injuries have slowed the veteran at this point in his career, as he has failed to top 800 yards receiving in each of the last two seasons. Of course, his per-game has still been top-notch, as he has managed to remain one of the top tight ends despite missing nine games in that span. He has averaged 67.8 yards per game over the last two season, a 1,000-yard pace if he could maintain it for 16 games, so Fantasy owners have to still consider Gates a weapon. He might deal with nagging issues, but when healthy, Gates is a clear No. 1 Fantasy tight end, especially as the top target in a team that loves to pass the ball.
News: Chargers tight end Antonio Gates sat out Friday's preseason game against the Vikings in Minnesota for precautionary reasons. Although Gates is not injured, the team will be without three starting offensive linemen. He has three catches for 34 yards and a touchdown through two preseason games. According to head coach Norv Turner, Gates should be ready to go come the first week of the regular season.
Analysis: Gates seems to be as healthy as he has ever been, so the Chargers don't want to risk anything during a meaningless preseason game. He has already established himself as one of the top tight ends in the league and could post some big numbers this season, especially with the departure of Vincent Jackson. He's worth a pick in Round 4 but owners might even find him available in Round 5.
News:Antonio Gates is making the first-team defense look like they're not even trying. His wide open receptions with a ton of yards after the catch are becoming too numerous to recall, not to mention a recent practice when he had two phenomenal one-handed grabs for TDs. This is the same player many said would never dominate again after he tore his plantar fascia in his right foot two seasons ago. Watching Gates return to health has been a slow and painful process. Repeatedly and almost apologetically, reporters would ask him how his foot was feeling. This year, the question may be unnecessary. Gates is healthy, and he looks like he may return to Pro Bowl form. Gates lost five pounds this offseason which he says has made a big difference. “Going into practice over the last couple of years, I just focused on trying to get through the practice because I had to deal with the soreness,” Gates said. “Now I am back to enjoying what I do and learning more about the game. I am just enjoying the game and embracing my health.”
Analysis: We've read rave reviews about Gates since the spring and feel confident he can end up being a solid Fantasy contributor again. With all the excitement over tight ends in New England and New Orleans, Gates shapes up to be a decent value on Draft Day this summer. He's worth a pick in Round 4 but owners might even find him available in Round 5. Not bad for a tight end who in his last 39 games has averaged nearly 70 yards per start with 25 touchdowns. With Vincent Jackson off to Tampa Bay, there might even be a bump up in his numbers in San Diego this fall.
News: According to Sports Illustrated, San Diego tight end Antonio Gates is running with no limp after a 2011 season spent with constant foot pain. "I appreciate my health so much now that I've got it back," Gates said.
Analysis: We're glad Gates feels good heading into the season. With all the excitement over tight ends in New England and New Orleans, Gates shapes up to be a decent value on Draft Day this summer. He's worth a pick in Round 4 but owners might even find him available in Round 5. Not bad for a tight end who in his last 39 games has averaged nearly 70 yards per start with 25 touchdowns. With Vincent Jackson off to Tampa Bay, there might even be a bump up in his numbers in San Diego this fall.
News: Chargers tight end Antonio Gates (foot) only had 74 receiving yards and no touchdowns through the first five games of last season. His production improved over the final 11 games with 704 receiving yards and seven touchdowns. Coach Norv Turner believes Gates will be able to continue to improve this season. “Gates has had the best offseason that he has had in three or four years,” Turner said.
Analysis: The biggest reason is Gates is healthy, and we hope his perpetually injured foot doesn't cause any problems this year. We like Gates as a No. 1 Fantasy tight end in all leagues, and he should be considered a Top 5 player at his position. He should be drafted in most formats by Round 4 or 5.
News: The Union-Tribune San Diego reports that Chargers tight end Antonio Gates has chosen to trim his playing weight this season, he said Tuesday, cutting it down by five pounds. "I've always felt deeply that as you get older, you have to lose a little weight," said Gates, who turns 32 next week. "I've always played at 260 (pounds). I felt like this year, I can play at 255 ... That's just the key. When I watch guys who have longevity and played for 15, 16 years, one thing I continuously hear is guys maintaining health, maintaining weight. They control their weight." Gates is proving this offseason he can still look like himself despite the weight gain. At the Chargers' organized team activities, Gates is running strong and stringing together consecutive practices, something that rarely occurred when dealing with plantar fasciitis the past two seasons. "You can't discredit the fact that I've played going on 10 years," Gates said. "The aches and pains of playing are always there. But in terms of my foot, I'm able to get to practice at a rate that I wasn't able to do in the past. From that standpoint, I'm feeling great."
Analysis: We're glad Gates feels good and is healthy in the offseason. With all the excitement over tight ends in New England and New Orleans, Gates shapes up to be a decent value on Draft Day this summer. He's worth a pick in Round 4 but owners might even find him available in Round 5. Not bad for a tight end who in his last 39 games has averaged nearly 70 yards per start with 25 touchdowns. With Vincent Jackson off to Tampa Bay, there might even be a bump up in his numbers in San Diego this fall.
News:Antonio Gates said he was "excited" to get back to work and not have to deal with foot injuries a month ago. On Wednesday, his head coach was excited to have him on the field. Chargers coach Norv Turner told the San Diego Union-Tribune that his star tight end is participating without incident in the team's minicamp and looks great. "He's back," Turner said. "Physically, he's back to where we want him to be. I think, like anybody, going through this offseason program helps you get better. (It's) the combination of conditioning, the combination of getting better in the areas you can improve, and being out there with your teammates."
Analysis: Gates hasn't worked out in the Chargers' offseason program in two years because of a multitude of foot injuries. But he's fine now and should be a lock to start the regular season in the Chargers' lineup. With all the excitement over tight ends in New England and New Orleans, Gates shapes up to be a decent value on Draft Day this summer. He's worth a pick in Round 4 but owners might even find him available in Round 5. Not bad for a tight end who in his last 39 games has averaged nearly 70 yards per start with 25 touchdowns. With Vincent Jackson off to Tampa Bay, there might even be a bump up in his numbers in San Diego this fall.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates went over the century mark for the first time this season in Week 17 against the Raiders. He caught five passes for 106 yards with a touchdown in the 38-26 win. He caught a 38-yard scoring strike from QB Philip Rivers in the first quarter, giving him seven touchdowns on the year. Gates, who averaged 21.2 yards per grab, finished second on San Diego in receiving behind WR Malcom Floyd (127 yards).
Analysis: A nagging foot injury slowed down Gates a bit this season but he still was able to put up some solid production for owners. He finished with 64 catches for 778 yards in 13 games and continued to rack up the touchdowns. The 31-year-old will likely deal with his foot injury for the rest of his career but his numbers over the last few seasons make him a solid option in Fantasy. Consider Gates a No. 1 Fantasy TE on Draft Day.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates will be facing a Raiders team in Week 17 that he has always had success against. He has nine career touchdowns against the division foe. Oakland ranks 25th in the league in pass defense, giving up over 247 yards per game, and has allowed an average of 6.4 Fantasy points to opposing tight ends.
Analysis: Gates has caught six passes for 71 yards over the last two games and has been held out of then end zone in both of those contests. But he is always a threat to score and will be playing hard with San Diego still fighting for a playoff spot. He posted 54 yards on five grabs when he faced Oakland earlier in the year so consider Gates a No. 1 Fantasy TE for Week 17.
News: On a day when not much seemed to go right for them, the Chargers at least got to watch Antonio Gates become the all-time receptions leader for the franchise in Week 16. With his 6-yard fourth-quarter reception, Rivers had his 587th career catch, enough to put him at the top. Gates would finish the game with four catches for forty yards as the Chargers would lose 38-10 to the Lions.
Analysis: Gates has certainly had an exceptionally prolific nine-year NFL career, but he has slowed down some this season, largely as a result of injuries and advancing age. He has just two touchdowns in his last four games, all coming in one contest, as he heads into Week 17 against the Raiders. He had five catches for 54 yards against them earlier in the season in Week 10. Consider Gates a No. 1 TE for Week 17.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates needs just three catches in the Week 16 game at Detroit to surpass Hall of Fame receiver Charlie Joiner for the most catches in franchise history. Gates could have his work cut out for him against a Lions team allowing the sixth-fewest Fantasy points per game to opposing tight ends. Detroit has only allowed one TE touchdown in the last five weeks of action.
Analysis: Gates caught just two passes last week for 31 yards and failed to score, though he scored twice the week prior against Buffalo. The last time Gates played against the Lions was back in 2007 and he had just one catch for 8 yards in that game. We expect things to be much different this time around. Honestly, are you really going to sit Gates at this late juncture in the season? Gates has six touchdowns on the season and is considered a No. 1 Fantasy option for Week 16.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates caught all of the passes thrown his way in Week 15 against the Ravens but that total was not much. He was targeted twice by QB Philip Rivers, gaining 31 yards on his two grabs in the 34-14 win. Gates finished third on San Diego in receiving behind WRs Malcom Floyd (96 yards) and Vincent Jackson (84 yards).
Analysis: Gates posted his lowest numbers since putting up a goose egg in Week 2 on Sunday night as Rivers was looking towards his wideouts more so. The Ravens did a solid job of limiting the 31-year-old but Fantasy owners should not worry too much. He should be able to get back on track next week against the Lions, who have allowed five touchdowns to tight ends thus far. Continue to roll with Gates as an elite Fantasy TE for Week 16.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates heads into Week 15 against the Ravens needing just five catches to surpass Hall of Famer Charlie Joiner for the most career catches in San Diego franchise history. That said, it might be difficult as the Ravens are allowing the second-fewest Fantasy points per game to opposing TEs on the season.
Analysis: Gates has his work cut out for him Week 15 against the Ravens. That said, he recorded his 75th TD reception last week and that is second-most in NFL history for tight ends behind Tony Gonzalez's 95. In his last two games against the Ravens, Gates has 11 catches for 183 yards and two touchdowns. No matter what the matchup, Gates remains a No. 1 Fantasy TE.
News: San Diego TE Antonio Gates added two more touchdowns in Week 14 versus Buffalo, giving him six on the year and 75 for his career. He caught three passes and a score on the opening drive of the game for the Chargers as Philip Rivers remembered who one of his favorite targets is. “I think [Gates] feels better each week,” Rivers said. “He obviously fought through a bunch to get on the field. He’s playing at a super-high level.”Rivers targeted Gates nine teams for a team-high seven receptions and 68 yards. The Chargers would go on to win the game, 37-10.
Analysis: Gates now needs five more catches to pass Hall of Famer Charlie Joiner for most catches in franchise history. The big man is finally healthy and it is showing. Gates, who missed three games earlier this season with a nagging foot injury, has 138 yards over the past two weeks. Unfortunately the Chargers host the Ravens in Week 15, a team that has allowed just nine passing scores this season. Even though Gates has an extremely tough matchup next weekend, Fantasy owners should keep him active as a No. 1 TE option.
News: San Diego TE Antonio Gates and QB Philip Rivers have connected for 46 touchdowns, the most touchdowns among a QB-TE duo in NFL history. Gates needs 12 more receptions to pass Hall of Famer Charlie Joiner for most catches in franchise history. He enters Week 14 looking to inch closer to that mark and the Bills stand in his way. In three career games versus Buffalo, Gates has caught 16 passes for 222 yards and two touchdowns.
Analysis: Gates missed three games earlier in the season with his nagging foot injury, but has been able to find the right mix of practice leading into game day. Rivers always sees to find Gates, and this Sunday shouldn't be any different. The Bills have allowed 21 passing touchdowns this year and are giving up an average of 8.50 Fantasy points to opposing team's tight ends. Fantasy owners should continue to view Gates as a No. 1 TE option for Week 14.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates was fairly productive in Week 13 against the Jaguars. Gates finished with a team-high six receptions for 70 yards in the 38-14 victory, but was unable to find the end zone. He averaged 11.7 yards per reception and was targeted seven times by Philip Rivers in the win, which was also a team high.
Analysis: While Gates' modest scoring streak came to an end on Monday night, he still was able to put up decent numbers against the Jaguars. Despite missing three games earlier in the season with a foot injury, Gates has been very quietly putting together another productive season. He has hauled in at least four receptions in each of his last seven games and has also raked up 459 receiving yards and four touchdowns over that stretch. Now Gates and the Chargers will welcome the Bills to town in Week 14. Consider him a No. 1 Fantasy TE against Buffalo.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates enters Week 13 having scored a touchdown each of his last two times out and will be looking to extend that streak against the Jaguars. Jacksonville ranks fourth in the league in pass defense, giving up under 184 yards per game, and have allowed an average of 8.4 Fantasy points to opposing tight ends. In his last three games against the AFC foe, Gates has totaled five scores.
Analysis: Gates continues to to play through a nagging foot injury but it has not slowed down his production much. He is averaging nearly six catches and 65 yards over his last four games and has three touchdowns over that span. The Jaguars have given up six touchdowns to tight end thus far and have allowed two 100-yard games. Continue to roll with Gates as a No. 1 Fantasy TE for Week 13.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates made some big plays in Week 12 against the Broncos, but didn't get much help from the other receivers. Gates made some leaping grabs, harnessing his days from college basketball, and scored a touchdown in the second quarter. Philip Rivers targeted him 10 times on the day. Gates caught a team-high six passes for 49 yards. San Diego would still end up losing the game, 16-13, despite Gates' efforts.
Analysis: Gates continues to deal with a nagging foot issue, which limits him in practice during the week. This is nothing new to Fantasy owners though as they are used to him being on the injury report on a weekly basis. In Week 13 the Chargers face the Jaguars on Monday night. Jacksonville has allowed 12 passing touchdowns this season and is allowing an average of 189 passing yards per contest. Fantasy owners should continue to view Gates as a No. 1 TE option as he is Rivers' most reliable receiver.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates was active on Sunday. He did not play in the first meeting versus the Broncos this year as he was dealing with his nagging foot issue. Gates has struggled through soreness in his right foot since last season when he tore his plantar fascia. This season the Broncos are allowing an average of 4.80 Fantasy points per contest to opposing team's tight ends.
Analysis: Gates continues to deal with this foot issue, which limits his practice schedule. But as long as he can take the field on game day that's all Fantasy owners care about. Gates has caught a touchdown pass in three of his last five contests and has hauled in at least four passes in each of those games. Even though he's got a tough matchup this weekend, Gates still has plenty of Fantasy value. Fantasy owners should view Gates as a solid No. 1 TE option for Week 12.
News: San Diego TE Antonio Gates has scored a touchdown in two of his past three games for the Chargers. In Week 12 he'll look to keep that trend going against Denver. Gates did not play in the team's first meeting this year as he was dealing with his nagging foot issue. Gates has struggled through soreness in his right foot since last season when he tore his plantar fascia. Gates hasn't face the Broncos since 2009. In those two outings he hauled in eight passes for 111 yards and did not score a touchdown. In his career, Gates has just three touchdowns versus Denver. This season the Broncos are allowing an average of 4.80 Fantasy points per contest to opposing team's tight ends.
Analysis: Gates has caught a touchdown pass in three of his last five contests and has hauled in at least four passes in each of those games. Even though he's got a tough matchup this weekend, Gates still has plenty of Fantasy value. He averages 56.2 yards per game in his 12 career meetings. Fantasy owners should view Gates as a solid No. 1 TE option for Week 12.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates was able to haul in his third touchdown pass of the season in Week 11 against the Bears. Gates was on the receiving end of a 8-yard strike from Philip Rivers in the second quarter, which tied the game at 10. He finished with four receptions for 63 yards and a score in the 31-20 loss and averaged 15.8 yards per reception. Gates had a long of 18 yards and was targeted four times by Rivers.
Analysis: Gates turned in another solid outing on Sunday and has been quietly putting together another productive season. He has now caught a touchdown pass in three of his last five contests and has hauled in at least four passes in each of those games. Now Gates will face a very familiar opponent in Week 12 when the Broncos come to town. The 30-year-old has faced Denver 12 times in his career and has averaged 56.2 receiving yards to go along with three touchdowns in those contests. While those aren't great career numbers, Gates looks to be the healthiest he has been in a long time and has been playing very well of late. Consider him a No. 1 Fantasy TE heading into next Sunday.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates has officially been ruled active for Week 11 against the Bears. Gates was listed as probable on the injury report this week, as non-jury related. Chicago enters Sunday's contest ranked 29th in pass defense, allowing 270 yards per game. The Bears have surrendered 12 touchdowns through the air and are allowing an average 11.7 Fantasy points to opposing TEs on the season, which is ranked 32nd overall. Gates, who has hauled in 30 catches for 351 yards and a pair of touchdowns through six games, finished with nine receptions for 107 yards and a score in his only career meeting against Chicago back in 2007.
Analysis: Gates has officially been ruled active, although his status was never really in doubt heading into Week 11. Gates has played well since returning from a foot injury earlier in the season and appears to be getting healthier as the year moves on. He has caught at least four passes in each of his last four games and looks to have a very favorable matchup against a Bears team that has struggled to defend the tight-end position thus far. Seven of the 12 touchdowns Chicago surrendered through the air this season have been caught by TEs and Gates has always been a favorite red-zone target for Philip Rivers. Consider him a No. 1 Fantasy option on Sunday.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates looks to have a favorable matchup in Week 11 against the Bears. Chicago enters Sunday's contest ranked 29th in pass defense, allowing 270 yards per game. The Bears have surrendered 12 touchdowns through the air and are allowing an average 11.7 Fantasy points to opposing TEs on the season, which is ranked 32nd overall. Gates, who has hauled in 30 catches for 351 yards and a pair of touchdowns through six games, finished with nine receptions for 107 yards and a score in his only career meeting against Chicago back in 2007.
Analysis: Gates has played well since returning from a foot injury earlier in the season and appears to be getting healthier as the year moves on. He has caught at least four passes in each of his last four games and was able practice in full for a whole week for the first time this season leading up to last week's contest against Oakland. Now he looks to have a very favorable matchup against a Bears team that has struggled to defend the tight-end position thus far. Seven of the 12 touchdowns Chicago surrendered through the air this season have been caught by TEs and Gates has always been a favorite red-zone target for Philip Rivers. Consider him a No. 1 Fantasy option heading into Week 11.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates was relatively productive in Week 10 against the Raiders. Gates finished with five receptions for 54 yards in the 24-17 defeat, but was unable to find the end zone. He did have a long of 22 yards and was targeted six times by QB Philip Rivers. Rookie Vincent Brown led the team with five receptions for 97 yards and a touchdown in the loss.
Analysis: Gates played OK on Thursday night, but many were expecting him to be able and put up bigger numbers against Oakland. However, the Raiders do deserve some credit as they did a good job of forcing San Diego to deviate from their game plan. Still, Gates has now caught at least four passes in each of his last four games and seems to be getting healthier. He was able to practice all week for the first time all season last week, which seems to indicate his foot is feeling better. Consider Gates a No. 1 Fantasy TE heading into Week 11 against the Bears.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates looks to have a favorable matchup in Week 10 against the Raiders. Gates, who has racked up 297 yards and a pair of touchdowns thus far, has been able to find the end zone nine times in 15 career meetings against Oakland, including twice last season. The Raiders enter Thursday's contest ranked 20th in pass defense, allowing 247 yards per game. Oakland has surrendered 14 touchdowns through the air and are allowing an average of 7.3 Fantasy points to opposing TEs on the season.
Analysis: Gates his coming off his best effort of the season last week and has played well since missing two games due his troublesome right foot. However, his foot is still a bit of an issue and will likely be all season, which is why Fantasy owners will have to continue and keep an eye on it moving forward. Still, Gates has proved he can be more than productive when playing at less than 100 percent and looks to have a very favorable matchup in Week 10. He has as a ton of success against Oakland over the years, including last year, as he racked up 11 receptions for 165 yards and a pair of scores over two meetings against them. Consider Gates a No. 1 Fantasy TE on Thursday night.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates turned in his best effort of the season in Week 9 against the Packers. Gates finished with eight receptions for 96 yards in the 45-38 defeat, but was able to haul in his second receiving touchdown of the season in the contest. He was on the receiving end of a 11-yard strike from Philip Rivers in the third quarter, capping off a 12-play, 84-yard scoring drive. Gates finished with a long of 19 yards and was targeted 11 times by Rivers in the loss.
Analysis: Gates turned in his best performance of the season on Sunday. His 96 receiving yards were a season high and he was able to record his second receiving touchdown of the season. Gates will now look to keep him momentum going when Raiders head to town in Week 10. The 30-year-old has a ton of success against Oakland over the years, as he has hauled in nine touchdowns in 15 career games against the division foe. However, Fantasy owners should keep in mind that the game will be on Thursday this week. That means it will be a short week for Gates, who may take a day or two off from practice in order to rest his troublesome right foot. As long as he is healthy enough to play, Gates can be considered a No. 1 Fantasy TE against Oakland.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates has officially been ruled active for Week 9 against the Packers. Gates was listed as probable on the injury report this week, as non-jury related. Green Bay enters Sunday's contest ranked 31st in pass defense, allowing 289 yards per game. The Packers have surrendered 12 touchdowns through the air and are allowing an average of 8.1 Fantasy points to opposing TEs on the season.
Analysis: Gates did not practice on Friday and was listed as no-injury related on the injury report released. However, that was most likely to give his troublesome right foot some rest. Gates has struggled through soreness in his right foot since last season when he tore his plantar fascia, although he will play against Green Bay. Consider Gates a No. 1 Fantasy TE against the Packers.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates is officially listed as probable for Week 9 against Packers. Gates, who has hauled in 17 passes for 201 yards and touchdown through four games, has missed three games this season with a foot injury. Green Bay enters Sunday's contest ranked 31st in pass defense, allowing 289 yards per game. The Packers have surrendered 12 touchdowns through the air and are allowing an average of 8.1 Fantasy points to opposing TEs on the season.
Analysis: Gates did not practice on Friday and was listed as no-injury related on the injury report released. However, 30-year-old most likely sat of practice in order to give his troublesome right foot a rest. Gates has struggled through soreness in his right foot since last season when he tore his plantar fascia, although he is expected to play on Sunday. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on his status leading up to kickoff, just to be on the safe side. even at less than 100 percent, Gates remains an elite Fantasy TE and can be considered a No. 1 Fantasy option against the Packers.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates had another productive performance in Week 8 against the Chiefs. He gained 73 yards on four catches in the 23-20 loss. He nearly had his second touchdown of the year but he was called for offensive pass interference right before halftime. Gates, who was targeted seven times, finished second on San Diego in receiving behind WR Malcom Floyd (107 yards).
Analysis: Gates has been playing through a foot injury since last season but it has not slowed his production down much. Aside from his goose egg in Week 2, he has had some productive performances when healthy. He should continue to a ton of targets from QB Philip Rivers going forward and remains an elite option in Fantasy. Consider Gates as such heading in Week 9 against the Packers.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates has been ruled active for Week 8 against the Chiefs after missing practice earlier in the week to rest his foot injury. Kansas City enters Monday ranked 17th in the league against the pass, giving up nearly 236 yards per contest, and have allowed an average of seven Fantasy points to opposing tight ends. Gates did not play when the division rivals met earlier in the year.
Analysis: Gates is coming off his first game since mid-September, missing time with issues stemming for his foot. He caught a touchdown among five receptions for 54 yards in that contest. Gates is an elite Fantasy TE and should remain active in all formats for Week 8.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates was back at practice on Saturday after being held out on Friday to rest his foot injury. “I would expect Antonio to play,” coach Norv Turner said. Gates has struggled through soreness in his right foot since last season when he tore his plantar fascia. Kansas City enters Monday ranked 17th in the league against the pass, giving up nearly 236 yards per contest, and have allowed an average of seven Fantasy points to opposing tight ends. Gates did not play when the division rivals met earlier in the year.
Analysis: Gates is coming off his first game since mid-September, missing time with issues stemming for his foot. He caught a touchdown among five receptions for 54 yards in that contest. This move to keep him out of practice was more of a precautionary measure and Gates is expected to be good to go against the Chiefs. Gates is an elite Fantasy TE and should remain active in all formats as long as he is playing.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates was held out of practice on Friday in an effort to rest his foot injury. Coach Norv Turner said that he expects Gates to resume practicing on Saturday as the team prepares for Week 8 against the Chiefs. “I would expect Antonio to play,” Turner said. Gates has struggled through soreness in his right foot since last season when he tore his plantar fascia. Kansas City enters Monday ranked 17th in the league against the pass, giving up nearly 236 yards per contest, and have allowed an average of seven Fantasy points to opposing tight ends. Gates did not play when the division rivals met earlier in the year.
Analysis: Gates is coming off his first game since mid-September, missing time with issues stemming for his foot. He caught a touchdown among five receptions for 54 yards in that contest. This move to keep him out of practice was more of a precautionary measure and Gates is expected to be good to go against the Chiefs. Gates is an elite Fantasy TE and should remain active in all formats as long as he is playing.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates practiced in full on Thursday. He's coming off his first game since mid-September, missing time with issues stemming for his foot. He caught a touchdown among five receptions for 54 yards in that game. In Week 8, San Diego travels to Kansas City. The Chiefs are giving up an average of 7 Fantasy points per contest to opposing team's tight ends this season.
Analysis: Gates will likely be on the injury report all year as this foot issue has been around for a while. He said on Monday that the soreness is manageable, but there is no telling when it will take a turn for the worse. As long as he continues to practice Fantasy owners should view Gates as a No. 1 TE option for Week 8.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates was spotted practicing with his teammates on Wednesday, according to the San Diego Union-Tribune. Gates is coming off his first game since mid-September, missing time with issues stemming for his foot. He caught a touchdown among five receptions for 54 yards.
Analysis: Gates said Monday that his soreness was manageable, but this has to be considered a great sign. Having the big guy participate at practice early on in the week with the game not until Monday suggests that he won't be in danger of missing the game. Hopefully he'll be able to play even more than he did in Week 7 (about 75 percent of the offensive snaps). Assuming he's fine leading up to the weekend action, Fantasy owners should feel good about starting him. We'll keep you posted.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates described the pain in his right foot (plantar fascia) as manageable on Monday. He played on Sunday against the Jets for the first time since he tore scar tissue in the foot in Week 2. Gates, who has frequently suffered setbacks the day after playing or practicing since he originally injured the foot last season, finished with five receptions for 54 yards and a touchdown in the 27-21 loss. “For what I have been through, it definitely (is) an upgrade,” Gates said.
Analysis: Gates appeared it make it through Sunday's contest in New York without incident and backed up those sentiments on Monday. However, his foot will likely continue to be an issue moving forward, so Fantasy owners will have to continue and monitor his status throughout the week. However, owners still saw what how product Gates can be -- even at less than 100 percent -- so consider him a No. 1 Fantasy TE, as long as he is healthy enough to play against the Chiefs.
News: San Diego TE Antonio Gates finished with five receptions for 54 yards and a touchdown in the Chargers' 27-21 loss to the Jets in Week 7 on Sunday. Gates, who was playing in his first game since Week 2 because of a troublesome foot injury, hauled in a 2-yard touchdown pass from QB Philip Rivers in the second quarter. It was his first touchdown since Week 13 of last season and the 70th score of his sterling career.
Analysis: Gates had been inactive since Week 2 when he tore scar tissue in his right foot. He was questionable for Sunday's game, but was able to play. However, he didn't appear to be at full speed as his foot likely is still not 100 percent healthy. Gates finished with seven targets from Rivers -- one behind WR Vincent Jackson for the team lead. Fantasy owners should monitor Gates' health status heading into Week 8 against Kansas City.
News: San Diego TE Antonio Gates is active for Week 7 against the Jets after dealing with a foot injury that has forced him to miss three games this season. Gates, who was considered questionable on the injury report, has not played since Week 2 when he was held without a catch against New England. He was a full participant in practice last Friday after missing the previous two session as planned by coach Norv Turner.
Analysis: Gates could be a little rusty as he plays in a game for the first time in more than a month. Turner said earlier this week he does not intend to utilize Gates for the entire game, but he will still see the majority of snaps. Gates, who scored 10 touchdowns last season, has tallied eight receptions for 74 yards this year. Consider him a low-end No. 1 Fantasy TE against a Jets defense which is permitting an average of just five Fantasy points per game to opposing tight ends.
News: San Diego TE Antonio Gates returned to practice Friday after sitting out the previous two days as he continues to overcome a foot injury that has kept sidelined for three games this season. The Chargers planned to keep Gates off the practice field for most of the week and bring him back Friday to keep him fresh for Week 7 against the Jets. "Going three days in a row might have been more than we needed right now," coach Norv Turner told the San Diego Union-Tribune. Gates is officially listed as questionable for the game.
Analysis: Gates appears to be in line to play for the first time since Sept. 18 against New England when he was held without a reception for only the second time in his career. The Chargers are expected to monitor his status during the game to determine how much playing time he will see, however, he won't see a full snap load. "I think it would be hard to ask him to do that," Turner said. "We did that in the first two games, and that probably got us where we're at, so we just have to be smarter. Play him a couple of series and then give him a series out." With his playing time expected to be limited, consider Gates a low-end No. 1 Fantasy TE against a Jets defense which is permitting an average of just five Fantasy points per game to opposing tight ends.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates, who hasn't played since Week 2 because of a foot injury, was not at practice Thursday as the team prepares for Week 7 at N.Y. Jets. Gates did practice Monday and Wednesday. However, coach Norv Turner said Gates got a scheduled day off so he could practice Friday. He has not had any setbacks.
Analysis: Thankfully, Gates didn't suffer any setbacks, but we expect he will be at best a game-time decision Week 7. This injury also might linger the rest of the season, which of course hurts his Fantasy appeal. But if Gates is up for Week 7, then consider him a viable Fantasy start since he is such a reliable producer when active.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates practiced Wednesday in prep for Week 7 at N.Y. Jets. Gates hasn't played since Week 2 because of a foot injury. His status will be determined later in the week.
Analysis: The Chargers are very hopeful that Gates will make it back Week 7, but even Gates isn't sure yet what to think. He is going to have to see how his foot holds up during the practice week, and even then he runs the risk of a setback during the game. Most Fantasy owners are still going to take that risk knowing what Gates can do when he is in the lineup. We just hope this injury becomes manageable or better yet it disappears.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates, who hasn't played since Week 2 because of a foot injury, returned to practice Monday as San Diego is coming off a Week 6 bye. His status for Week 7 against the Jets will be determined later in the week. “We have a long week,” Gates said. “I didn’t go out there to make any assessments of playing on Sunday. I went out there to see exactly what I could do and couldn’t do and take it one day at a time.”
Analysis: The Chargers are very hopeful that Gates will make it back Week 7, but even Gates isn't sure yet what to think. He is going to have to see how his foot holds up during the practice week, and even then he runs the risk of a setback during the game. Most Fantasy owners are still going to take that risk knowing what Gates can do when he is in the lineup. We just hope this injury becomes manageable or better yet it disappears.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates told the San Diego Union-Tribune on Tuesday that he cannot guarantee that he will be able to return in Week 7 against the Jets. He has missed the last three games due to a foot injury. "I can't make any predictions because I don't want to hold up to that, especially with the way it's been going. Fluctuating up and down," Gates said.
Analysis: Gates will have the benefit of a bye week to help him get healthy but it is becoming clear that a return in Week 7 is no guarantee. More will be known after practices resume so keep an eye on the situation going forward. Gates has caught eight passes for 74 yards in two games this season and should be considered a solid Fantasy option, when healthy. If he is unable to play against the Jets, Randy McMichael will start in his place.
News: Chargers coach Norv Turner (foot) said on Monday that he expects "nearly everyone" to play in his team's next game, including TE Antonio Gates (foot) following their Week 6 bye. The Chargers will return to action in Week 7 at the Jets.
Analysis: Gates has not played since being ineffective in Week 2 against the Patriots as he continues to battle a lingering foot injury. He has suggested that rest may be a solution and will have had about a month of rest before the Jets game. This is still a situation that Fantasy owners will need to monitor closely, but Fantasy owners should be itching to get him back into active lineups as soon as possible. He had eight catches for 74 yards in Week 1 against Minnesota.
News: As expected the Chargers were without TE Antonio Gates on Sunday against the Broncos. He continues to deal with foot issues and his return to the field is up in the air.
Analysis: The Chargers remain optimistic that they'll have their tight end back on the field sooner than later. That could come in Week 7 at the Jets following their bye week. Fantasy owners should continue to keep Gates on the shelf. Randy McMichael is expected to start in place of Gates until he's healthy. Fantasy owners should continue to monitor his status moving forward.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (foot) did not return to practice Friday as the team prepared for Week 5 against the Broncos, missing the entire week of practice. He's officially listed as doubtful and not expected to play.
Analysis: The Chargers remain optimistic that they'll have their tight end back on the field sooner than later. That could come in Week 7 at the Jets following their bye week. Fantasy owners should continue to keep Gates on the shelf. Randy McMichael is expected to start again at TE in Week 5 for the Chargers, but he's been very unproductive in place of Gates.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (foot) did not return to practice Thursday as the team prepares for Week 5 against the Broncos.
Analysis: It doesn't appear Gates will return in Week 5, especially with the Chargers on a bye in Week 6. If anything changes with his status, then we will let you know. But don't expect to start Gates in Fantasy Week 5. Randy McMichael is expected to start again at TE in Week 5 for the Chargers.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (foot) did not practice on Wednesday, according to the San Diego Union-Times. Chargers coach Norv Turner said Monday that Gates, who has missed the last two games with a foot injury that could reportedly sideline him for several more weeks, is "making progress." However, Turner did not know when Gates would return.
Analysis: Gates has been considering rest options that could sideline him for several more weeks. With the team on a bye in Week 6, it seems highly likely that he will be given at least until after the bye to recover. Continue to monitor his situation this week in practice, but Fantasy owners should not be expecting to have him active this week, barring significant improvement. Randy McMichael will continue to start in Gates' absence.
News: Chargers coach Norv Turner said Monday that TE Antonio Gates, who has missed the last two games with a foot injury, is "making progress." However, Turner doesn't know when Gates will return. The Chargers play Denver in Week 5 before the bye in Week 6.
Analysis: With the bye so close, you have to figure that the Chargers will likely keep Gates reserved Week 5 and give him a little more time to rest. However, it's still worth monitoring his progress this week just to see if he has a chance to play. Randy McMichael will continue to start in Gates' absence.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates has been ruled inactive for Week 4 against the Dolphins as he continues to deal with a foot injury. Gates, who has now missed two straight games with his injury, reportedly has torn scar tissue in his foot and could be out for Week 5 as well. Randy McMichael will start in his place.
Analysis: Gates continues to be plagued by foot issues and isn't quite sure when he is going to be able to return to action. He has been mulling options when it comes to the best way of handling the injury, including resting for several weeks, so Fantasy owners should continue to monitor his status moving forward. Gates can be considered a No. 1 Fantasy TE, when healthy.
News: San Diego TE Antonio Gates was unable to return to practice all week for the Chargers and is listed as doubtful for Week 4 against Miami. Gates reportedly has torn scar tissue in his foot. Randy McMichael is likely to start in his place. Miami enters Sunday's contest ranked 30th in pass defense, allowing 311 yards per game. The Dolphins have surrendered eight touchdowns through the air and allowed an average of 16 Fantasy points to opposing TEs this season.
Analysis: Gates was inactive for the team's Week 3 game and is heading in that same direction for this Sunday's game. The 31-year-old has recorded eight receptions for 74 yards in two games this season, but all of that production came in Week 1 against Minnesota (he was shut out against the Patriots). Fantasy owners should seek healthier alternatives for Week 4. Viable alternatives owned in 55 percent or less of CBSSports.com leagues include: Marcedes Lewis (54), Jermaine Gresham (42) and Brent Celek (33), not to mention Randy McMichael (9).
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates tore scar tissue in the foot he suffered a torn fascia last season in Week 2 and has not practiced since, including being out for Thursday's session. Gates, however, pointed out the scar tissue tear is ultimately positive. “The scar tissue that I am tearing is beneficial for me in the long run,” Gates said. “Hopefully, it will get to the point where I have no more issues with it.”
Analysis: Gates said Wednesday "it would be difficult" to play during the team's Week 4 matchup against Miami as he continues to deal with the injury. Gates, who has not played an entire season since 2009, doesn't sound like he will be healthy by Sunday. However, he does seem to think there is light at the end of the tunnel. He has been mulling options when it comes to the best way of handling the injury, including resting for several weeks. Fantasy owners should be looking to secure healthy alternatives at the tight end position until his situation improves. Even if he plays, he'll have to prove healthy before he can be trusted again.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates said Wednesday "it would be difficult" to play during the team's Week 4 matchup against Miami as he continues to deal with a troublesome foot injury. Gates was inactive for Week 3 after he missed several practices last week. He said Tuesday he is contemplating resting three to five weeks in order to allow his foot to heal efficiently. “It’s kind of week-by-week,” Gates said. “In the span of two or three days, I have seen miracles happen with my body.”
Analysis: Gates, who has not played an entire season since 2009, doesn't sound like he will be fully healthy by Sunday. The hulking 31-year-old was scheduled to have further examination on his ailing foot that caused him to miss six games last season. Gates has played two games this year and was held without a catch during the Chargers' Week 2 loss at New England. Fantasy owners should continue to monitor his progress as Gates' injury woes could become a weekly issue.
News: The San Diego Union-Tribune reports that Chargers TE Antonio Gates is seeking more input regarding his injured right foot. He was scheduled to visit a foot specialist on Tuesday and is considering further examination by the doctor who performed his foot surgery following the 2007 season. "I think those questions are still in the air," he said. "… Rest can definitely help, but it’s a combination of, at what point is the worst-case scenario for me? Is it going to be a situation where if I rest it ain’t going to make a difference if I come back and run, because you have to get through the scar tissue?" Gates is contemplating resting three to five weeks or longer with hopes he will come back and complete the season uninterrupted.
Analysis: Gates added that the decision to play is up to him and it depends on how much pain he can tolerate. He said that, currently, the pain is not as severe as it was last season when he played almost two months with a torn plantar fascia before having to sit out the final four games. An MRI on his foot last week, Gates said, “looked great.” The star tight end's status remains very much in the air and Tuesday's doctor visit could go a long way in determining how long Fantasy owners may be without his services. We'll continue to update you on his status, but for now Fantasy owners should be ready with alternatives.
News: Chargers coach Norv Turner said he expects TE Antonio Gates, who was inactive Week 3 against the Chiefs, will be able to return to full health this season and go an extended period of time without missing practices or games. Turner, however, was evasive when pushed for a timeline for Gates return. “It might be Sunday,” Turner said of Gates possibly return Week 4 against Miami.
Analysis: Gates is one of those players that doesn't have to practice in order to be active for a game, but the fact Gates is still having lingering foot problems is not comforting for Fantasy owners. You would love to have Gates back in Week 4, especially since TEs have had big games against the Dolphins. But this is a situation you will have to follow throughout the weekend. You might want to have Randy McMichael handy as a handcuff option just in case Gates is inactive again.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (foot) was listed among the team's inactives for Week 3 against Kansas City. ESPN has reported that he is dealing with a tear to his plantar fascia in his foot.
Analysis: Gates, who was questionable on the injury report, has dealt with a foot injury in the past. The severity of this injury has yet to be confirmed, but it is something his Fantasy owners will need to monitor closely. We'll have the latest news as it becomes available. Get him out of your active lineups where possible. Randy McMichael will replace him at tight end and could make for a decent last-minute addition as an emergency replacement.
News: ESPN reports that Chargers TE Antonio Gates is dealing with a tear in his foot, making him unlikely to play in Week 3 against Kansas City. The tear is said to be to his plantar fascia.
Analysis: Gates, who is questionable on the injury report, has yet to be officially ruled out. That will not become official until around 90 minutes prior to the 4 p.m. ET kickoff. However, this report does make Gates too risky to activate in most Fantasy formats. Get him out of your active lineups where possible. Randy McMichael would replace him at tight end and could make for a decent last-minute addition as an emergency replacement.
News: San Diego TE Antonio Gates (foot) is expected to miss the team's Week 3 matchup against Kansas City on Sunday, according to ProFootballTalk.com. Gates, who did not practice all week with a troublesome foot injury, is officially listed as questionable on the injury report. Gates was held without a catch for only the second time in his career during the Chargers' loss at New England in Week 2 last Sunday.
Analysis: Gates missed six games last season due to a foot injury, so it's possible he has not fully recovered from the setback. The 31-year-old has registered eight receptions for 74 yards in two games this season. Remember, his status is not official until it comes from the team prior to kickoff so Fantasy owners should keep an eye on Gates until the last minute. If he doesn't play, TE Randy McMichael will start in his place.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates attempted to practice on Friday, but returned to the locker room shortly into group drills. This was after him not practicing on Wednesday or Thursday, creating some concern for his availability for Week 3 vs. the Chiefs. He is officially listed as questionable. Randy McMichael would start if Gates can't.
Analysis: Gates has shined against Kansas City in the past and hauled in 12 touchdown catches against the Chiefs, his most against any opponent. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on Gates' status and if he's active, consider him a No. 1 Fantasy TE. We'll be the first to know if he's in or out around 2:30 p.m. ET here on CBSSports.com.
News: San Diego TE Antonio Gates (foot) did not practice again Thursday in preparation for the Chargers' Week 3 matchup against Kansas City. Gates was also out on Wednesday as he continues to experience soreness from his torn plantar fascia he suffered last season. San Diego coach Norv Turner insists he is not giving Gates extra rest. “This is early in the season, I would like Antonio to be able to practice every day," he said Thursday.
Analysis: Gates will be looking to make history in Week 3 -- if he is able to play. The hulking 31-year-old, who was held without a catch against New England in Week 2, needs one more touchdown catch to join Tony Gonzalez as the only tight ends in NFL history with at least 70 touchdowns. Gates has shined against Kansas City in the past and hauled in 12 touchdown catches against the Chiefs, his most against any opponent. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on Gates' status and if he's active, consider him a No. 1 Fantasy TE.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates will be looking to make history in Week 3 against the Chiefs -- a team he normally thrives against. Gates needs five receptions to climb the ladder for receptions by a San Diego player. He also needs one more touchdown catch to join Tony Gonzalez as the only two tight ends with at least 70 touchdowns. If history means anything, Gates could have a big day. He has 12 touchdown receptions versus the Chiefs, the most he has against any opponent. Through two weeks this season Kansas City has given up three touchdowns to opposing team's tight ends. Gates missed practice on Wednesday because of 'normal' foot soreness.
Analysis: Kansas City has been tore up pretty good against tight ends, and Gates has a history of solid performances versus this division foe. Plus he's coming off a game where he did not catch a pass, so he will be primed to make an impact. Fantasy owners should keep Gates active for Week 3 as he's an elite TE option.
News: San Diego TE Antonio Gates finished without a catch for the first time since 2008 during the Chargers' 35-21 loss to New England in Week 2 on Sunday. Gates was targeted only once by QB Philip Rivers as he was blanketed by the Patriots defense all game. "They would put a corner or safety on me, or two safeties," said Gates, who had eight receptions in Week 1. "They did a lot of different things to take me out of the game."
Analysis: Gates wasn't hurt, though it seemed like he was during his disappearing act. He was consistently covered and failed to record a reception for only the second time since his rookie season in 2003. You learn from it, but we’re not going to blink," Gates said. "We have a journey. This is a marathon." Fantasy owners should dismiss the poor outing by Gates and consider him a No.1 Fantasy TE for Week 3 against Kansas City.
News: After showcasing that he is fully recovered from a foot injury that limited his performance last season, San Diego TE Antonio Gates is focused on achieving personal milestones in Week 2 against New England. Gates needs five catches to pass Kellen Winslow for second-most in franchise history with 542. (Charlie Joiner leads with 586.) The hulking tight end hauled in eight receptions for 74 yards against Minnesota in Week 1.
Analysis: Gates is also one score shy of becoming the second tight end in NFL history with 70 touchdown receptions. Atlanta's Tony Gonzalez is the only other member in league history with 88 TD catches. Gates could have a strong opportunity to match at least one record as he's hauled in three touchdown receptions in four games against the Patriots. Consider him a solid No. 1 Fantasy TE in all formats for Week 2.
News: San Diego TE Antonio Gates had eight receptions for a team-high 74 yards in the Chargers' 24-17 victory over Minnesota in Week 1. Gates, who averaged a sterling 9.3 yards per catch against the Vikings' weak secondary, also paced the team with 13 targets from QB Philip Rivers.
Analysis: Gates looked completely healthy following a foot injury that limited his production last season. The hulking 31-year-old missed six games last season as he amassed just 50 receptions -- his lowest total since his rookie season in 2003. Gates also displayed a quick connection with Rivers, as always, and had a long catch of 15 yards. Fantasy owners should view Gates as an elite option in Week 2 against Tampa Bay.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates has practiced this week wearing gloves and special shoes to help with lingering soreness in his right foot from the torn plantar fascia he suffered last season. Gates received approval from the league to wear both on Sunday against the Vikings. “I am leaning toward (wearing them),” Gates said. “I prefer to carry what I have prepared in over into the game.”
Analysis: It's good that Gates is trying to protect himself from further setbacks. Fantasy owners are especially happy since many of them spent a high-round pick on Gates, who can be the best Fantasy TE on the market when he is healthy. Gates has just four catches for 65 yards and one touchdown in two career games against Minnesota, but he remains a No. 1 Fantasy TE for Week 1.
News: San Diego TE Antonio Gates was used sparingly during the preseason -- for good reason. The hulking tight end missed six games with a painful torn right plantar fascia in his foot last season. But the rest during the exhibition period has helped him stay healthy for the regular season as he attempts to play 16 games for the fifth time over his last six years. Gates racked up 782 yards on 50 catches last season.
Analysis: Despite missing a handful of games, Gates reached double-digit touchdown catches for the third time in career and finished three scores shy of matching his career high in 2004. The Chargers will have WR Vincent Jackson back for the entire season, but Gates remains a top target of QB Philip Rivers in the red zone. Fantasy owners should view Gates as a premier No. 1 TE option as he appears fully healthy.
News: TE Antonio Gates didn't practice on Tuesday. Coach Norv Turner said Gates hasn't suffered a setback in dealing with his sore foot. “No,” coach Norv Turner said. “(Gates) has had outstanding work. He played in a game and he had an outstanding practice yesterday."
Analysis: Sounds like Gates got a day off. Hopefully it's that and not something injury-related. Gates appears to be ready for the start of the season, and we hope he can stay 100 percent healthy this year. He should be considered the No. 1 Fantasy TE coming into the season, and we like him with a fourth-round pick in most formats on Draft Day.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates made his preseason debut Saturday at Arizona, and he played well in his time in the game, showing no problems with his foot. Gates had two catches for 18 yards and a touchdown. He scored on a 13-yard pass from Philip Rivers in the second quarter. "It was good, man," he said. "It was like riding a bike again. There's still a lot of rust, but I think the best thing is just going out there getting the repetitions and see how I feel being in a live game."
Analysis: Gates appears to be ready for the start of the season, and we hope he can stay 100 percent healthy this year. He should be considered the No. 1 Fantasy TE coming into the season, and we like him with a fourth-round pick in most formats on Draft Day.
News: The San Diego Union-Tribune reports that Chargers TE Antonio Gates is feeling good and could make his preseason debut Saturday against the Cardinals. “The more opportunities to see something, the better off you’ll be when the time comes,” Gates said. “It would definitely help.” Gates practiced all but one day last week but did not play in Sunday’s game in Dallas. He has practiced every day this week. There is no question he’d play if this weekend were the season opener, but as he and the team try to assure he doesn’t have a setback with his foot it might be smarter that he sits another preseason game. Said Gates: “I don’t want to determine anything before Saturday.”
Analysis: It appears like Gates is on track to be close to 100 percent, which is all you can ask for. We consider Gates the No. 1 Fantasy TE this season, and he's worth drafting as early as Round 4 in the majority of leagues.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates, who is recovering from a torn right plantar fascia he suffered last season, was listed among the teams inactives for Thursday's preseason opener against the Seahawks. Gates has only recently been able to practice.
Analysis: Gates has been one of the more injury-prone players in all of football over the last few seasons, so we weren't surprised to learn of him being held out for precautionary reasons. Fantasy owners should not worry about him missing meaningless preseason games, as long as he is ready to go for Week 1. Gates has re-iterated that he wants to head into the season as healthy as possible, so continue to view him as the top Fantasy TE on Draft Day unless he suffers another setback.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates, who has practiced only a few times since training camp opened, is focused on starting the season healthy and believes that is a realistic goal. “Absolutely,” Gates said. “It’s not that farfetched. I had a bad problem of not giving myself proper rest. When you get older you have to give yourself that proper rest.”
Analysis: Gates is working his way back a torn right plantar fascia he suffered last season. But he still said the injury is a bit of an issue. He appears to have a plan in place to try to manage the injury so he can get a whole season worth of games. There appears to be some injury-risk involved with drafting Gates, but he is certainly worth the gamble at a position like TE. Still consider Gates one of your best Fantasy options at TE.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates, who is recovering from a torn right plantar fascia he suffered last season, returned to practice on Thursday. He appeared comfortable on his feet and caught a few passes in scrimmages. The bigger test will be how he is feeling on Friday. After the injury last season, Gates repeatedly had setbacks the day after he practiced or played.
Analysis: Gates was placed on the PUP list last Thursday while dealing with the ongoing issue, and we wouldn't be surprised to see him taking a day off here and there while he can in camp and during the preseason. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on his habits going forward, though we still view the veteran as the best TE available. As long as he is healthy for Week 1, we feel he should be the first TE off of the board on Draft Day, selected as early as Round 4 in all leagues.
News: Reports out of San Diego said Thursday that Chargers TE Antonio Gates was placed on the physically unable to perform list because of his foot issues. Earlier in the day, Gates told reporters that he feels good, expects a great season and no one will be able to tell when he's playing -- though the plantar fasciitis that bothered him last year remains an issue. If he remains on the PUP list through the preseason then he'll be forced to sit for at least the first six weeks of the regular season.
Analysis: Gates has been one of the more hobbled top-notch Fantasy options over the last few seasons, but he still manages to produce right about where we expect him to. Fantasy owners should expect more of the same this season, as the big man will get some extra rest it seems. Still, the situation is worth keeping an eye on considering Gates has already had extra time to deal with injury. As long as he is healthy for Week 1, we feel he should be the first TE off of the board on Draft Day, selected as early as Round 4 in all leagues. We'll keep you posted.
News: The San Diego Union-Tribune reports that Chargers TE Antonio Gates said Thursday that he feels good, expects great season and no one will be able to tell when he's playing, but the plantar fasciitis that bothered him last year remains an issue. Gates was placed on injured reserve in Week 13 last season because of a foot injury.
Analysis: We hope that Gates is able to maintain his health and not suffer because of his foot during the season. Last year, Gates caught 29 passes for 478 yards and seven touchdowns during the first five games before injuring his foot Week 6 at St. Louis. He managed 304 yards and three touchdowns in the season’s final 11 games, missing six due to the injury. Keep an eye on Gates during training camp, but we still consider him the No. 1 TE coming into the year. As long as he's healthy for Week 1 he should be drafted as early as Round 4 in all leagues.
News: According to Pro Football Weekly, Chargers TE Antonio Gates, who was placed on injured reserve in Week 13 last season because of a foot injury, said that while he misses seeing his coaches and going to the Chargers' facility, the lockout might have worked in his favor this offseason. "The end of last season was tough, but this lockout has kind of been helpful for me, because it's allowed me more time to rehab and get treatment," Gates said. "So I'm feeling really good now. The lockout has allowed me to spend more time with my kids and my family, which is nice." Gates has been present at the team's players-only workouts in San Diego, organized by QB Philip Rivers.
Analysis: Gates caught 29 passes for 478 yards and seven touchdowns during the first five games of the 2010 season before injuring his foot Week 6 at St. Louis. He managed 304 yards and three touchdowns in the season’s final 11 games, missing six due to the injury. As long as he's healthy, Gates should return as a standout option in all leagues. We consider Gates the No. 1 Fantasy TE in all leagues, and he's worth drafting as early as Round 4.
News: The Chargers official team website reports that coach Norv Turner said TE Antonio Gates (plantar fasciitis) is healthy. “I did get to see him during the two-day period that the lockout was lifted and he’s excited that his rehab is going well," Turner said. Gates caught 29 passes for 478 yards and seven touchdowns during the first five games of the 2010 season before injuring his foot Week 6 at St. Louis. He managed 304 yards and three touchdowns in the season’s final 11 games, missing six due to the injury. "He’s going to be our lead guy (in 2011),” Turner said. “It’s a shame he got hurt a year ago because he was not only going to have his career-best year but maybe the best year ever by a tight end. He’ll be a big part of what we do (this season) and he’ll be a great role model for our young players.”
Analysis: It all sounds positive for Gates heading into 2011, and we're glad to hear he's back healthy after dealing with nagging injuries in 2010. We consider Gates the No. 1 Fantasy TE in all leagues, and he's worth drafting as early as Round 4.
News: The Chargers official team site reports that TE Antonio Gates (foot) was not medically cleared to play in the Pro Bowl. Gates said when the season ended he was hopeful of playing in the postseason if the Chargers had made it and of making a Pro Bowl appearance. Now it appears like his foot has not yet healed at 100 percent. Still, he should be ready for the start of the 2011 season.
Analysis: Continue to monitor Gates' recovery and hopefully this injury doesn't linger. We expect Gates to be ready for the start of the 2011 season at 100 percent, and he should be drafted as the No. 1 TE in all leagues. When healthy, Gates is an elite Fantasy option in all formats, and he's worth drafting as early as Round 4.
News: The San Diego Union-Tribune reports that Chargers TB Antonio Gates said he would have been able to play if the team made the playoffs. “I would have played – 100 percent chance,” Gates said. “I know me. I know how I felt going into this last game. The rest I’ve had was critical to me being able to play in the playoffs.” Gates’ last game was Dec. 5 against the Raiders. It was decided the next week that he would shut down his injured right foot for the regular season in hopes of being healthy enough to play in the postseason should the Chargers qualify. He was placed on Injured Reserve last week after the Chargers were eliminated from the playoff race. Now Gates and the Chargers will confer on whether he does have one more “game” in him this month – the Jan. 30 Pro Bowl. Players on IR generally are not allowed to play in the Pro Bowl. But Gates could play because was not on IR at the time of balloting. “If I can get in a position where I can still run and be healthy without it looking a certain way at the same time,” Gates said.
Analysis: It sounds like Gates should be ready for the start of the 2011 season, which is what matters most. Keep an eye on his progress to see if he can play in the Pro Bowl and when he starts to take part in offseason work. He will enter next year as a No. 1 Fantasy TE in all leagues, and he's worth an early-round selection on Draft Day.
News: The Chargers placed TE Antonio Gates on injured reserve Thursday with toe and foot injuries. However, Gates has no concerns that he'll be limited next season by the torn plantar fascia in his right foot. "Once you rest and it heals, it's like you never had it," Gates said. "My doctors said that on a scale of 1 to 10, this is like a 1."
Analysis: Gates hasn't played since Week 13, and with the Chargers missing the playoffs there was no need to risk Gates in Week 17 against the Broncos. Gates finishes his 2010 season with 50 receptions for 782 yards and 10 touchdowns. He should be healed up for next season and will remain a must-own Fantasy option on Draft Day 2011.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (foot), who was elected as starter to the Pro Bowl, doesn't know if he will be able to play in the game. “The situation with the injury is obviously an ongoing process with me,” said Gates. “Right now my mind is just focused on getting healthy." Gates did not return to practice Wednesday as his team prepares for Week 17 against the Broncos.
Analysis: The Chargers are out of the playoff hunt, so playing Gates in Week 17 appears slim seeing how he has sat out the last three weeks. This has been an unfortunate turn for Gates since he was having an outstanding season before getting hurt. Plan to use a healthier alternative in Fantasy Week 17.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates was inactive, as expected, for Sunday's game against the Bengals. He was ruled out on Friday by San Diego as he continues to deal with a torn right fascia in his foot.
Analysis: Gates has said he needs rest for this nagging injury to heal. With him out of action he can't do the Chargers or Fantasy owners much good. He's been a terrific player all year, so its unfortunate owners can't use him. When healthy, Gates is a No. 1 TE option. With him injured owners in seasonal leagues can drop him, if your season ends in Week 16.
News: The Chargers officially ruled out TE Antonio Gates Friday, meaning that he will not play against the Bengals in Week 16. Gates continues to be plagued by a torn right fascia in his foot. He said earlier this week that he doesn't expect to play again until his foot is healed. “Running throughout the week does not benefit me at this point,” Gates said. “This injury gets aggravated whenever I run. It just needs rest.”
Analysis: If your Fantasy season ends in Week 16, you should actually cut Gates and pick up a player off waivers who can help you (or block your opponent from doing well). Otherwise keep him benched. It looks as if Gates is taking on as much rest as possible so he can return for the playoffs. Randy McMichael isn't a bad sleeper replacement for Gates, nor is Owen Daniels, Visanthe Shiancoe or Jimmy Graham.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (foot) -- who did not practice again Thursday -- denies an AP report that said he will be out the next two weeks. “I never said I wasn’t going to go next week,” Gates emphasized. “I don’t know where people are getting the idea that I will be down for two weeks. Maybe it was misinterpreted the wrong way.” The banged up Pro Bowl TE said the foot felt fine on Thursday. “The worst case scenario is that I would try to heal it over a span of time, then try and come back,” Gates said. “But (Thursday), it felt good. You know how I am, it is going to be hard to just keep me off of the field.” The Chargers take on the Bengals in Week 16.
Analysis: Gates was said to be out until the Playoffs started in a report last week, so Thursday's comments come as a surprise. Gates has been known to play with several injuries over the last few seasons, and did so again this year before missing the last two games (and 4 of 6) with the ongoing issue. When healthy, Gates is a must-start Fantasy option but the situation should be monitored on Friday to see if he is listed as questionable or doubtful. Gates has typically played while being listed questionable, but has not when listed as doubtful.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (toe, foot) was unable to practice on Wednesday as the team prepares for the Week 16 game against the Bengals. Gates indicated he is waiting for his foot to completely heal before practicing or playing on it. He is unlikely to play this week. “Running throughout the week does not benefit me at this point,” Gates said. “This injury gets aggravated whenever I run. It just needs rest.” In three career games against Cincinnati, Gates has 10 catches for 114 yards and a touchdown. The Bengals have been giving up 6.3 Fantasy points per outing to opposing team's tight ends this season.
Analysis: Gates was said to be out until the Playoffs started in a report last week, so the time-frame doesn't come as a surprise. What is new however, is the notion that he would play only if the injury was completely healed. Gates has been known to play with several injuries over the last few seasons, and did so again this year before missing the last two games (and 4 of 6) with the ongoing issue. When healthy, Gates is a must-start Fantasy option but it doesn't look like he'll be able to help Fantasy owners out for the rest of 2010.
News: The San Diego Union-Tribune reports that Chargers TE Antonio Gates (toe, foot) isn't expected to return until the playoffs -- if the Chargers make it that far. “I think that’s kind of the goal,” Gates said Thursday night. Coach Norv Turner was little more positive on Friday however, saying, "I'm hoping for Gates in Cincinnati (Week 16). I don't know if he will be ready for Cincinnati, but if he is, we need him."
Analysis: While this obviously isn't great news for Gates' owners, at least they now can pretty much forget about having him for the final two weeks of the regular season and can focus their tight end attention elsewhere. When healthy, Gates is a must-start Fantasy option, but he's been hobbled by this injury all season. While he has managed to find the end zone a lot when he has played, his yardage totals have suffered a bit. Continue to stash him away for now just in case he does manage to get back before the playoffs.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (toe, foot) was inactive for the Week 15 game blowout win over the 49ers. He was originally listed as doubtful for the matchup after missing practice for the second straight week. Gates has now missed four games with the injury.
Analysis: Gates has been hobbled by the injury all season and played on it for a few games, but the pain and re-aggravations have caught up to him. Continue to stash the Pro-Bowler in all Fantasy formats. The good news is that it means extra rest for his foot before an impeccable Week 16 matchup at Cincinnati. Hopefully he can make some progress in his recovery and play in that game at the Bengals.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (toe, foot) is inactive for the Week 15 game against the 49ers. He was originally listed as doubtful after missing practice for the second straight week. Gates has now missed four games with the injury.
Analysis: Gates has been hobbled by the injury all season and played on it for a few games, but the pain and re-aggravations have caught up to him. Continue to stash the Pro-Bowler in all Fantasy formats. The good news is that it means extra rest for his foot before an impeccable Week 16 matchup at Cincinnati. Hopefully he can make some progress in his recovery and play in that game at the Bengals.
News: After not practicing all week, the Chargers listed TE Antonio Gates as doubtful for Thursday night's game vs. the 49ers. He's sidelined due to a painful plantar fascia tear in his right foot. Randy McMichael would likely start in Gates' place. "I always hold out hope with Antonio, but at some point you have to be realistic," head coach Norv Turner said according to the San Diego Union-Tribune.
Analysis: The last time Gates was listed as doubtful, he didn't play, so owners should go with the presumption that he will not make it on Thursday night. The good news is that it means extra rest for his foot before an impeccable Week 16 matchup at Cincinnati. Hopefully he can make some progress in his recovery and play in that game at the Bengals. We'll have the official word on Gates in this space at roughly 7 p.m. ET on Thursday night, so check back then if you want to ensure that he's inactive. If he somehow manages to get on the field, he faces the NFL's best Fantasy defense against TE's, only allowing just three touchdowns this season and none in the last eight games.
News: Steve Wyche of NFL.com reports that Chargers TE Antonio Gates (toe, foot) is unlikely to play Thursday night in a Week 15 matchup with the 49ers. Gates did not practice on Tuesday after sitting out Week 14 against the Chiefs.
Analysis: These injuries are a pain tolerance issue for Gates. If he is good enough to play, then he will. Luckily for Fantasy owners, the Chargers-49ers game is the first of the week, so if Gates is inactive, then owners can have a backup plan waiting in the wings for the weekend. If Gates is active, he has shown even at less than 100 percent he can be a viable Fantasy play. We'll see if the veteran practices on Wednesday.
News: The Chargers had no good news Tuesday in regards to TE Antonio Gates, who continues to be hobbled by a foot injury. Gates was unable to practice again Tuesday, putting his status for Week 15 against the 49ers on Thursday night in jeopardy. Gates was inactive for the third time this season in Week 14.
Analysis: You have to figure with the short week that Gates is unlikely to play Week 15, but we didn't expect him to play Week 12 or Week 13 and he did. It's a pain tolerance issue for Gates. If he is good enough to play, then he will. Lucky for Fantasy owners is that the Chargers-49ers game is the first of the week, so if Gates is inactive, then owners can have a backup plan waiting in the wings for the weekend. If Gates is active, he has shown even at less than 100 percent he can be a viable Fantasy play. Stay tuned for the latest.
News: The San Diego Union-Tribune reports that Chargers TE Antonio Gates, who missed Sunday's game against Kansas City in Week 14, said he is uncertain he will finish the season due to the painful plantar fascia tear in his right foot. “I’ve always been week to week, up and down,” Gates said. “Over time I’m going to have make a decision … Does it make it difficult for the coaches to put the proper gameplan together? I don’t know. I think that’s something we will definitely talk about this week. I’m going to take another look at it, see how I feel going into this Thursday night game. If not, I’m going to try to get an estimate how much time I need to get back healthy. If that’s two weeks, four weeks, that remains to be seen whether or not I should make some decision about finishing the season or continuing to try to fight through this injury.”
Analysis: The short week for Thursday's game against San Francisco in Week 15 might not help Gates get ready to play. He's been a warrior trying to play through the pain in his foot and toe, but he also might want to rest in case the Chargers sneak into the playoffs. Continue to monitor what develops with Gates, but Fantasy owners need to make other plans in case he does sit for the rest of the year. When healthy, Gates is a must-start Fantasy option in all leagues.
News: San Diego tight end Antonio Gates is inactive for the Chargers' Week 14 game against Kansas City. Gates, who was listed as questionable on the injury report, is dealing with a torn plantar fascia in his right foot, an injury he'll likely play with for the rest of the season.
Analysis: Gates' absence is a huge blow to Fantasy owners. The NFL's touchdown leader among tight ends is active in 87 percent of CBS leagues so Fantasy owners should quickly find a replacement for him. Randy McMichael could see a lot of targets in his place as the Chargers receiving corps is still hobbling. Gates' status for San Diego's Week 15 game against San Francisco is unknown.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (foot) missed a third straight day of practice Friday and is listed as questionable for his matchup vs. the Chiefs in Week 14. "I don't know," Gates said Friday when asked if he would play Sunday. "It's rough. I couldn't go (Friday)." Last week he made practice on Friday and wound up starting and playing well against the Raiders. Gates is working his way back from torn plantar fascia in his right foot, an injury he'll likely play with for the rest of the season. Kansas City has been an opponent he's beaten up on of late, totaling three touchdowns on 12 catches for 194 yards in his last two against them. That includes a touchdown against them in Week 1; Gates is one of three tight ends to score on the Chiefs this year.
Analysis: You know the deal with Gates by now: Check to see if he's active 90 minutes before kickoff of his game and if he's active, start him. We suspect he's still a candidate to play so long as the Chargers don't rule him out in advance. Just make sure you have a backup plan in place -- a tight end or flex option with a late-game start time -- in case Gates is inactive. Check back with us around 2:30 p.m. ET on Sunday to get the verdict on him.
News: San Diego TE Antonio Gates (foot) did not practice for a second straight day Thursday as the Chargers prepared to face Kansas City in Week 14. Gates, who has played the last two weeks after missing practice time during the week leading up to a game, said he can't foresee not playing Sunday. Gates has been bothered by a painful torn plantar fascia in his right foot the last six weeks. The hulking tight end missed two games as a result of the injury but still leads San Diego with 782 receiving yards this season.
Analysis: Gates has been noticeably gimpy in his last two weeks since returning from a two-game absence due to the injury. With several Chargers receivers questionable to play in Week 14, Gates hopes to contribute against the NFL's 21st-ranked pass defense (233.1 yards a game). He's too good to sit on Sunday and should be considered a No. 1 Fantasy TE against a Chiefs defense that is allowing an average of 5.3 Fantasy points a game to tight ends this season.
News: San Diego tight end Antonio Gates (foot) didn't practice on Wednesday in preparation for the Chargers' Week 14 game against Kansas City. This has become the norm for Gates, who has played the previous two games after missing Wednesday practices. Gates said he can't foresee not playing Sunday, but he is still in great pain and will limit his practice reps. “There is more of a dying need (to play),” Gates said. “I would really have to be hurting for me to not go on Sunday.” Gates has been bothered by a painful torn plantar fascia in his right foot the last six weeks that has forced him to miss two games. He still leads San Diego with 782 receiving yards this season.
Analysis: Gates, who leads all NFL tight ends with 10 touchdowns this season, has been noticeably gimpy the last two weeks since he returned to the field after his two-game absence. With two games with multi-touchdowns this season, Gates should be considered a top-tier Fantasy option in Week 14 but be sure to check his status as he will remain a game-time decision right up to kickoff.
News: After missing two games with injuries and a sub-par performance in his last outing, Chargers TE Antonio Gates got back to his productive ways in Week 13 against the Raiders. He caught six passes for 73 yards and a touchdown in the 28-13 loss. Gates' 4-yard touchdown catch in the fourth quarter was his 10th touchdown this season. It is the third time in Gates' career that he has reached that marked. He was targeted for six passes from QB Philip Rivers and led San Diego in receiving yards in the defeat.
Analysis: Gates leads all NFL tight ends in touchdown receptions this season and is the only NFL player with at least eight TD catches in each of the last seven seasons. On a day in which San Diego could not get much going offensively, the 30-year-old had his best performance in weeks. He has been pretty banged up of late so Fantasy owners should keep an eye on him over the next few days to make sure he did not suffer a setback on Sunday. Gates continues to be one of the top options at his position in Fantasy and should be considered a must-start against the Chiefs in Week 14.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates was active for Week 13 against the Raiders after missing practice earlier in the week with a toe injury. He was able to practice Friday after sitting out Wednesday and Thursday. Gates did play in Week 12 at Indianapolis after sitting out Week 11 against Denver and Week 9 against Houston.
Analysis: There was a lot of confusion on whether or not Gates would play in Week 13 but it is official: he is good to go against the Raiders. Fantasy owners should get him active as the 30-year-old had five catches for 92 yards and a touchdown when the division foes met earlier in the year. Although Oakland ranks fifth in the league against the pass, they have allowed an average of 6.2 Fantasy points to opposing tight ends. Gates remains an elite Fantasy TE and should be active in all leagues for Sunday's game.
News: San Diego TE Antonio Gates remains a game-time decision, according to the NFL Network. The team's official site had listed him as out for the game but they have since reported that was a typo. Gates is not a guarantee to play in the game, yet, but he's also not officially inactive. Dan Fouts of CBS, who is calling today's game between the Chargers and Raiders, expects Gates will play in the game.
Analysis: Gates was listed as questionable on the official injury report and he was able to practice on Friday -- a strong indication that he might be able to play. In any case, Fantasy owners will have to continue to keep tabs on his progress leading up to kickoff. We'll find out by about 2:30 p.m. ET when the inactives are listed and get that news out to you as soon as it is available. Fantasy owners that need to make a decision prior to the early games will have to take a leap of faith.
News: There are conflicting reports as to the availability of Chargers TE Antonio Gates for Week 13 against Oakland. While the team's official website lists him as out for the game, NFL Network reports that the reports of him being down-graded are not correct. According to that report, Gates is expected to test his foot in warmups and will be a game-time decision.
Analysis: The fact that the Chargers website listed Gates as out caused quite an uproar, but the reality is that the website is far from official. Gates was listed as questionable on the official injury report and he was able to practice on Friday -- a strong indication that he might be able to play. In any case, Fantasy owners will have to continue to keep tabs on his progress leading up to kickoff. We'll find out by about 2:30 p.m. ET when the inactives are listed and get that news out to you as soon as it is available. Fantasy owners that need to make a decision prior to the early games will have to take a leap of faith.
News: The official team website for the Chargers lists TE Antonio Gates as out for Sunday's game against Oakland in Week 13. Gates, who is dealing with a foot/toe injury, was listed as questionable on Friday's injury report. He was able to practice Friday after sitting out Wednesday and Thursday. Gates did play in Week 12 at Indianapolis after sitting out Week 11 against Denver and Week 9 against Houston. Gates said Friday that on Sunday he will "make a decision on whether I can contribute to the team. My decision-making is about how much I can give and at what percent to determine whether I can go."
Analysis: We'll find out by about 2:30 p.m. ET when the inactives are listed if this news is official, but Fantasy owners should prepare to be without Gates. We should also have an update from CBS announcer Dan Fouts, who is calling the game and expected to join Fantasy Football Today at 11 a.m. ET on CBSSports.com. And obviously, if Gates is able to play, he should be considered a must-start Fantasy option based on his potential.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (toe) worked the majority of practice Friday and is questionable for Week 13 after missing practice on Wednesday and Thursday as San Diego prepares for Oakland. Gates will likely continue his trend of seeing how his foot feels on Saturday nights, then testing it in the hours leading up to kickoff on Sunday. "I wanted to get a feel for how my foot was going to react to the pressure, cutting," Gates said. "Sunday, I'll make a decision on whether I can contribute to the team. My decision-making is about how much I can give and at what percent to determine whether I can go." He was unable to play in consecutive games sandwiched around the Chargers' bye, the first time in his stellar career that he'd been sidelined by injury. Gates was able to hobble through Sunday night's 36-14 victory at Indianapolis in Week 12. Gates will go through the same drill leading up to Week 13, when the recharged Chargers (6-5) seek a measure of revenge against their stumbling archrivals, the Oakland Raiders (5-6).
Analysis: Gates said Thursday part of the decision whether he plays or sits on Sunday has to do with how much he can contribute at approximately 60 percent compared to what backup tight ends Randy McMichael and Kris Wilson can do at 100 percent. Gates knew that the Colts game was a big one, especially since the four-time defending AFC West-champion Chargers are still chasing the Kansas City Chiefs in the division. "I want to get to the point where I can be and do the things that I know that I can do," Gates said. "It's like, instead of being 60-60-60 all the way through the whole season, I want to eventually get to the point where I'm 100 percent, where I can get back to playing at a level that know I can play at." Fantasy owners want that as well, but it might not happen for the veteran TE. This is a situation where we are going to have to follow this situation up until inactives every week to see whether or not Gates plays. The team's website listed him as out on Saturday, but no other sources have confirmed a downgrade. To be sure, check back with us about 90 minutes before kickoff when the inactives are released. He will be an injury-risk start every week until he gets close to 100 percent.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (toe) worked the majority of practice Friday and is questionable for Week 13 after missing practice on Wednesday and Thursday as San Diego prepares for Oakland. Gates will likely continue his trend of seeing how his foot feels on Saturday nights, then testing it in the hours leading up to kickoff on Sunday. "I wanted to get a feel for how my foot was going to react to the pressure, cutting," Gates said. "Sunday, I'll make a decision on whether I can contribute to the team. My decision-making is about how much I can give and at what percent to determine whether I can go." He was unable to play in consecutive games sandwiched around the Chargers' bye, the first time in his stellar career that he'd been sidelined by injury. Gates was able to hobble through Sunday night's 36-14 victory at Indianapolis in Week 12. Gates will go through the same drill leading up to Week 13, when the recharged Chargers (6-5) seek a measure of revenge against their stumbling archrivals, the Oakland Raiders (5-6).
Analysis: Gates said Thursday part of the decision whether he plays or sits on Sunday has to do with how much he can contribute at approximately 60 percent compared to what backup tight ends Randy McMichael and Kris Wilson can do at 100 percent. Gates knew that the Colts game was a big one, especially since the four-time defending AFC West-champion Chargers are still chasing the Kansas City Chiefs in the division. "I want to get to the point where I can be and do the things that I know that I can do," Gates said. "It's like, instead of being 60-60-60 all the way through the whole season, I want to eventually get to the point where I'm 100 percent, where I can get back to playing at a level that know I can play at." Fantasy owners want that as well, but it might not happen for the veteran TE. This is a situation where we are going to have to follow this situation up until inactives every week to see whether or not Gates plays. And he will be an injury-risk start every week until he gets close to 100 percent.
News:Antonio Gates hasn't even thought about simply sitting out a game or two to let the torn plantar fascia in his right foot heal. Bothered by the painful injury since late October, the San Diego Chargers' star tight end has settled into a routine. He sees how his foot feels on Saturday nights, then tests it in the hours leading up to kickoff on Sundays. He was unable to play in consecutive games sandwiched around the Chargers' bye, the first time in his stellar career that he'd been sidelined by injury. Gates was able to hobble through Sunday night's 36-14 victory at Indianapolis in Week 12. Gates will go through the same drill leading up to Week 13, when the recharged Chargers (6-5) seek a measure of revenge against their stumbling archrivals, the Oakland Raiders (5-6). "I never really thought about shutting it down because of the situation," said Gates, a three-time All-Pro and six-time Pro Bowler. "The fact that we did start off 2-5 has a lot to do with it. If we were sitting here at 11-0, I mean, it's a no-brainer, just go and get healthy. We'd probably have clinched the situation with a playoff berth. But we're not. We're in a situation where really, it's a possibility where there won't be a tomorrow for me. It defeats the purpose of why we play the game, because we want to go to the playoffs, we want to win the championship."
Analysis: Gates said part of the decision whether he plays or sits has to do with how much he can contribute at approximately 60 percent compared to what backup tight ends Randy McMichael and Kris Wilson can do at 100 percent. Gates knew that the Colts game was a big one, especially since the four-time defending AFC West-champion Chargers are still chasing the Kansas City Chiefs in the division. "I want to get to the point where I can be and do the things that I know that I can do," Gates said. "It's like, instead of being 60-60-60 all the way through the whole season, I want to eventually get to the point where I'm 100 percent, where I can get back to playing at a level that know I can play at." Fantasy owners want that as well, but it might not happen for the veteran TE. This is a situation where we are going to have to follow this situation up until inactives every week to see whether or not Gates plays. And he will be an injury-risk start every week until he gets close to 100 percent.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (foot) missed practice on Wednesday and does not plan to practice for the remainder of the week heading into the Week 13 game against the Raiders. Gates played against the Colts on Sunday but made no promises that he will play this week. “It all depends on how I feel Saturday night going into Sunday,” Gates said. He has missed two games with the injury.
Analysis: Even though Gates was able to play last week, he was clearly less than 100 percent, as he ran routes gingerly and failed to show a burst throughout the night. He ended up with four catches for 46 yards on the night, all in the second half. Continue to monitor his practice habits just in case he heals quicker than once thought. Still, he will likely remain to be a game-time decision for Sunday. A healthy Gates is a top-notch Fantasy option, but if he looks like he did on Sunday, we'd call him a low-end No. 1 Fantasy TE in Week 13.
News: Despite missing his last two games with a foot injury, Chargers TE Antonio Gates had four catches for 46 yards against the Colts in Week 12. All of Gates' receptions came in the second half. QB Philip Rivers targeted him just four times.
Analysis: Gates did not even see a pass come his way in the first half, when he appeared to be running his routes gingerly. He still seemed far under 100 percent in the second half but he was able to establish a rhythm after hauling in his first pass in the third quarter. In Week 13, the Chargers take on the Raiders, who are a top-five defense against the pass. Still, Gates is a No. 1 Fantasy option and he should remain active in Fantasy play as long as he is in the lineup. Monitor his practice habits heading into Week 13 just in case.
News: Despite being listed questionable heading into the Week 12 game against the Colts, Chargers TE Antonio Gates (toe, foot) will be active. He missed last week's game and did not practice all week with the ailment.
Analysis: A healthy Gates is considered a must-start Fantasy option since he is the No. 1 TE in scoring formats, but he has expressed how severe the pain of this injury is. Starting him is a bit of a risk. The Colts have allowed a TE to score in back to back games.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates was unable to practice Friday after going through a limited workout Thursday. Gates, who has been dealing with a foot injury, is listed as questionable for Sunday's game at Indianapolis in Week 12. Gates was asked if he could play this Sunday. He sighed and shrugged his shoulders as if to indicate that it was doubtful. “It has just come to the point where it is getting frustrating,” Gates said. “I haven’t been in this situation before.” He has missed the past two games with the injury.
Analysis: We don't expect Gates to play in Week 12 at the Colts. Continue to monitor his status, but plan on being without Gates in this matchup. If he does play then he would be considered a must-start Fantasy option since Gates is the No. 1 TE in scoring formats. The Colts have allowed a TE to score in back to back games.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates(foot), who has been inactive for the past two games, practiced Thursday. "I didn't finish, but I'm incredibly sore," Gates said. He grimaced during an interview session. "I did this kind of running last week and then I couldn't go for two days," Gates said. "I couldn't even walk on a treadmill. I don't know what my response is going to be, but I feel like I'm making progress. But it's so painful, and I have to figure out if I can play through that."He says he'll wait until Friday to determine if he truly took a positive step toward playing Sunday night.He is hoping to return for Sunday's game at Indianapolis in Week 12.
Analysis: Keep an eye on what happens with Gates for Friday's practice. If he's able to play against the Colts he would be considered a must-start Fantasy option in all leagues.
News: Chargers tight end Antonio Gates says he'd like to try to practice this week to see if his torn right plantar fascia has healed enough to allow him to play Week 12 against the Colts. Gates has missed two straight games and says the injury is still painful. He did not practice on Wednesday. “It has gotten better,” Gates said. “It’s still painful. I’ve been through pain, but this is painful. Days are getting shorter. Mentally, I have to decide what’s best for this team. We’re going against a real tough team.” Gates even discussed the possibility of not playing again this season. “It’s come up,” Gates said. “But I don’t see myself allowing that to happen.”
Analysis: Gates doesn't have to practice to play in a game, but the fact he is still saying his injury is painful is not a good sign. The Chargers have played well without Gates, so San Diego isn't likely to rush its star TE back into action before he is close to 100 percent. At this point, don't plan on using Gates in Week 12, but if anything changes, we will let you know. Gates is clearly a must-start Fantasy option when healthy.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (foot), who has missed the last two games with a torn plantar fasciitis, may play Week 12 against the Colts. “I am hopeful that he can play this week,” coach Norv Turner said. “There is a concern that it is going to take longer than that. I think he is making progress.”
Analysis: Gates has now missed two straight games since putting up 123 yards and a touchdown in Week 8, and his Fantasy owners have to be worrying if they'll have him back before Christmas at this rate. The Chargers looked just fine on Monday night without their star TE and won't be rushing him back as long as they keep on winning. Continue to stash Gates away in all Fantasy formats until he's finally back healthy.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates did not play in the Week 11 win over the Broncos as he was ruled inactive before the game. He has been dealing with a foot injury and did his best to be able to return by the Monday night contest.
Analysis: Gates missed the previous game in Week 9 against Houston with the foot injury and had struggled to practice during the bye in Week 10 and then all week leading up to the game. Gates is normally a must-start Fantasy option so keep an eye on him to make sure he will be able to return in Week 12 at Indianapolis.
News: San Diego TE Antonio Gates is inactive for the Week 11 Monday night game against Denver, reports the San Diego Union-Tribune. Gates has been dealing with a foot injury and did his best to be able to return by the Monday night contest. Randy McMichael will start in Gates' place.
Analysis: Gates missed the previous game in Week 9 against Houston with the foot injury and had struggled to practice during the bye in Week 10 and then all week leading up to the game. Now that he's out, your only choice is to replace him with McMichael unless you chose to start someone else this week. Gates is normally a must-start Fantasy option and should return in Week 12 at Indianapolis.
News: The San Diego Union-Tribune reports that Chargers TE Antonio Gates, who is listed as questionable with a foot injury for Monday night's game against Denver, could try to play against the Broncos. The paper reports that "indications are that he will try to play." Gates did not practice all week leading up to the Week 11 game. The Chargers could need Gates with third-string TE Kris Wilson dealing with a bad back. The Chargers signed TE Kory Sperry off the practice squad Monday since Wilson was also limited in practice Thursday and Friday and did not practice Saturday. He is also listed as questionable. If Gates is out then Randy McMichael would start against the Broncos.
Analysis: We're surprised but encouraged by the news that Gates could play. He missed the previous game in Week 9 against Houston with the foot injury and has struggled to practice during the bye in Week 10 and then all week leading up to the game. You're going to have to monitor CBSSports.com leading up to the game when the inactives are released to determine who is starting between Gates or McMichael. If Gates is starting then we would recommend using him in all leagues because even at less than 100 percent he should still be able to make a positive impact. If Gates is out then McMichael would be a quality replacement since he had two touchdowns against the Texans.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates could not practice, as expected he would not, on Saturday. Gates, however, is officially listed as questionable for the Week 11 game on Monday night against Denver. His' status as questionable comes as a bit of a surprise. Most anticipated a doubtful listing. Gates hasn't practiced this week, and he has repeatedly voiced frustration with the pain in his foot. Whether Gates plays or not will be a game-day decision.
Analysis: Gates doesn't take missing games lightly and will do everything in his power to be on the field Week 11 against the Broncos on Monday night. If Gates is unable to play Week 11, then Randy McMichael will start in his place. Gates has said the pain in his foot is unbearable and it could hurt his performance, even if he is active for the game. Since the Chargers don't play until Monday, unless you have McMichael as a handcuff, you are probably going to have to start another TE in Fantasy since waiting on Gates' status is a big risk.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (toe, foot) did not practice again Friday, leaving doubts about his playing status for Week 11 against the Broncos. He said that he's improving, but he also said that he's still in a lot of pain and the healing process has been frustratingly slow. If Gates is unable to play Week 11, then Randy McMichael will start in his place.
Analysis: Gates has expressed his frustrations this week dealing with the torn plantar fascia in his right foot. He says the pain is unbearable and it is sounding as though he might have to sit out another game. Since the Chargers don't play until Monday, unless you have McMichael as a handcuff, you are probably going to have to start another TE in Fantasy since waiting on Gates' status is a big risk.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (toe, foot) was held out of practice again on Thursday, leaving his status for Week 11 against the Broncos in question. "I've never had to be 100 percent to play," Gates told the San Diego Union-Tribune. "But still the criteria which you need to meet to get out there on the field -- that's being able to run, being able to do something off the foot where it doesn't bother me. I've got a way to go. At this point, I'm trying to give myself a chance to play. It's a tear. It's brutal. It's pain. This is probably as frustrated as I've been in my career based on the recovery." If Gates is unable to play Week 11, then Randy McMichael will start in his place.
Analysis: It's sounding very iffy that Gates will be able to suit up on Monday. Even if he is healthy, it sounds as though he won't even be close to 100 percent. Fantasy owners should probably plan on starting a healthier alternative unless we get a positive report on Gates' status on either Friday or Saturday. He is normally a must-start Fantasy option when healthy.
News:Antonio Gates is getting frustrated with the torn plantar fascia in his right foot that could sideline him for a second straight game. And for the Fantasy geeks who are wondering, the San Diego Chargers' star tight end really doesn't know if he'll be able to play Week 11 against the AFC West rival Denver Broncos. "That's probably the most-asked question, anyway, can I play, so they can see if they can drop me," Gates said Wednesday. "I just try to keep them informed. I try to tweet some things here and there. I try to keep them updated." In short, not much has changed for Gates, who sat out practice again Wednesday. He did some running and exercises in the pool. "It's a rehabbing, healing process, man. It's brutal. I did some running today, but obviously I'm not running the way I would have to run on Monday. I just have to wait and see."
Analysis: Gates has been Philip Rivers' favorite target, with 40 catches for 663 yards and nine touchdowns. Gates said he'll do whatever he can to get back on the field. "It's not recovering as fast as I would probably want it to, in a sense, but who's to say I won't play?" he said. "Obviously they've got things to try to decrease the pain, whatever they've got to do to help me play in the game. But I'm dealing with something different. It's not the pain tolerance, it's the fact that it is a tear." It sounds like Gates is going to be questionable heading into Monday's game, and unless you have Randy McMichael as your backup, then relying on Gates in Week 11 is going to be risky for Fantasy owners. Stay tuned for further updates as the week progresses.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (foot) remained unable to practice Wednesday. San Diego, who is coming off a bye, host Denver in Week 10.
Analysis: Gates has a painful plantar fascia injury in his right foot that he used the bye week to rest, but it's obviously still bothering him quite a bit. Fantasy owners should stayed tuned over the next couple of days to see how Gates progresses. He is clearly a must-start Fantasy option when healthy, but make sure he is able to play before making him active.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates said that he is not sure that he will be able to return in Week 11 against the Broncos as he was unable to practice on Monday due to a painful plantar fascia injury in his right foot. Gates isn't even sure when he'll return to practice. "It's a tear. It's not a tough-man, grind-it-out thing. I tore it," Gates said. "It's got to heal. That's a big part of me running and cutting." Gates was able to play against New England and Tennessee despite limited or no practice time. He hurt his plantar fascia against Tennessee on Oct. 31, when his 48-yard touchdown catch late in the third quarter put the Chargers ahead in a game they'd win 33-25.
Analysis: Gates missed San Diego's 29-23 win at Houston on Nov. 7 but said he'll do all he can to play against Denver in Week 11. Earlier this season, he was hobbled by toe and ankle injuries. Even with the extra rest from the bye week, his status is still up in the air for Monday night's game. Fantasy owners should stayed tuned throughout the week to see how he progresses. Gates is clearly a must-start Fantasy option, when healthy, but make sure he is able to play before making him active.
News: TE Antonio Gates (foot, toe), who missed the Week 9 game against the Texans, expects to return against the Broncos after this week’s bye. However, he will delay his return if he does not feel 100 percent. “If I am out there and I am playing, it is because I feel really good,” Gates said.
Analysis: Gates has done with injuries throughout his career, especially with foot issues. He knows his capabilities and limitations and he wasn't able to go in Week 9, so it was getting worse. Still, the bye comes at an opportune time and it's a waiting game with Gates, who probably will be questionable for his Week 11 matchup. Clearly, he is a must-start Fantasy option when healthy, so track his progress closely.
News: The San Diego Union-Tribune reports Chargers TE Antonio Gates, who sat out Week 9 against the Texans because of various foot injuries, might not practice until late next week. The Chargers are on a bye in Week 10 before returning to action in Week 11 against the Broncos. “I’m glad I got a whole other week and then a Monday night game," Gates said.
Analysis: Gates has dealt with his fair share of injuries through his career, but he has usually been able to tough them out and play. Sadly, all his injury issues caught up to him in Week 9. The bye comes at an opportune time. Still, it's a waiting game with Gates, who probably will be questionable for his Week 11 matchup. Clearly, Gates is a must-start Fantasy option when healthy, so track his progress closely.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates was among the inactives for Week 9 at Houston. He did not practice all week due to toe and foot injuries. Gates said he had a feeling he couldn't play when he walked off the team bus at Reliant Stadium. He didn't even test his injured foot in warmups. "For the first time, I really felt (pain)," he said. "I just didn't feel good." He was replaced in the starting lineup by Randy McMichael, who had two touchdowns against the Texans.
Analysis: As recently as Saturday, Gates thought he was well enough to play this weekend, but he will have to sit this one out. The Chargers are on a bye in Week 10, and hopefully Gates can return in Week 11 when San Diego plays host to Denver. When healthy, Gates is a must-start Fantasy TE in all formats.
News: The San Diego Union-Times reports on Saturday that Chargers TE Antonio Gates, listed as doubtful for the Week 9 game at Houston with toe and foot injuries, was walking fine as San Diego went out for a walk-through.
Analysis: Gates is still doubtful but the Union-Times reporter believes he's going to play in the game. The reason he gave was just Gates has never stopped before. That sounds good to us. Continue to monitor this situation closely because, as everyone knows, Gates is a must-start Fantasy option whenever he's healthy. That said, the Chargers have a bye Week 10 and conventional wisdom would suggest they will make sure Gates is healthy for the rest of the year and hold him out with the extra rest looming.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates did not practice again Friday. He has now missed practice all week heading into Week 9 at Houston with his injured plantar fascia as well as turf toe. Coach Norv Turner said Thursday that he doesn't know if Gates will be able to play against the Texans, and he will likely be a game-time decision. Hopefully he can play because it's a favorable matchup for him since the Texans have allowed four touchdowns to opposing tight ends this year and four have reached double digits in Fantasy points. Gates comes into Week 9 with nine touchdowns on the season, and he failed to score in only one game, which was Week 6 at St. Louis. He has 11 catches for 215 yards and two touchdowns in two career meetings with Houston.
Analysis: This is not good news that Gates missed practice Friday. With the Chargers on a bye in Week 10, they could decide to rest him for this matchup at Houston to give him extra time to heal for the stretch run of the season. Gates has been an iron man this season by playing through injuries, but you have to prepare yourself in case he sits against the Texans. Add another TE to your roster in the event he's ruled inactive, but hopefully he decides to give it a go Sunday. Obviously if he's on the field you should have him in your starting lineup.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (foot) may not play against the Texans in Week 9. "In the last three weeks he has had one day of practice -- that was last Friday," coach Norv Turner said. "I don't know if he will be able to practice tomorrow, and I don't know if he will be able to play in the game on Sunday." Gates has an injured plantar fascia as well as turf toe. The Chargers didn't list the plantar fascia injury on Wednesday's injury report, the first of the week. A spokesman says it was an "oversight" and it would be added on Thursday's report. On Wednesday, Dr. Phillip Kwong, a foot specialist with the Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic, told the San Diego Union-Tribune some folks find it difficult to walk for weeks after tearing the plantar fascia. “I think it’s going to be really tough to play with any proficiency this Sunday, unless they do a remarkable job anesthetizing him,” Kwong said. "He has a lot of demands on him at his position. This injury will make it difficult for him to push off and be explosive.”
Analysis: Regardless of what the injury report says, Gates has been a warrior, playing through several foot injuries in his career. The Texans are expecting him to play through the injury yet again on Sunday. "Everyone says he's listed as doubtful, but he didn't practice last week and (nearly) had 150 yards," Texans S Bernard Pollard said. The one thing about Gates is that we can never count him out. If he is active for Week 9, then he is a must-start Fantasy TE. Stay tuned, even if the decision doesn't come until Sunday.
News: The San Diego Union-Tribune reports Chargers TE Antonio Gates, who has been hobbled by toe and ankle injuries the past few weeks, has added another ailment to his list of injury woes. The paper reported Gates popped the plantar fascia in his right foot in Week 8 against the Titans. Gates sought a medical opinion in May about plantar fasciitis in his right foot, but the injury hadn't bothered him until Week 7 against the Patriots when he tried to compensate for the injuries in his other foot. “My (right) foot was on fire,” Gates said of the aftermath of the Patriots game. “It was so bad, it was like my toe and ankle didn’t bother me anymore.” The fact Gates popped his plantar fascia helps eliminate the tightness he dealt with Week 8. However, Dr. Phillip Kwong, a foot specialist with the Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic, told the Union-Tribune some folks find it difficult to walk for weeks after tearing the plantar fascia. “I think it’s going to be really tough to play with any proficiency this Sunday (Week 9 against the Texans), unless they do a remarkable job anesthetizing him,” Kwong said. "He has a lot of demands on him at his position. This injury will make it difficult for him to push off and be explosive.”
Analysis: It's interesting to hear one doctor's opinion on Gates' latest ailment. But Gates has been in this situation plenty and always seems to defy the odds. Even coach Norv Turner commented Wednesday on the fact Gates' toe injury limits him during games. "It doesn't look like it when he is running down the sideline with the ball," Turner said. "But I know that he is in a lot of pain and he knows that we need him. He is giving us everything that he's got." Well, Gates is going to try his best to suit up Week 9. “I was in so much pain,” Gates said of his status after Week 8. "But you take steps, you prepare the right way. I hope I can go (Week 9). That’s how important this game is. I know I said last week’s game was important. But the fact we won makes this game even more important.” The one thing about Gates is that we can never count him out. If he is active for Week 9, then he is a must-start Fantasy TE. Stay tuned.
News: Chargers coach Norv Turner said TE Antonio Gates' toe injury limits him during games. "It doesn't look like it when he is running down the sideline with the ball," Turner said. "But I know that he is in a lot of pain and he knows that we need him. He is giving us everything that he's got." Gates sat out practice Wednesday as the team prepares for Week 9 against the Texans.
Analysis: The routine for Gates will probably be limited or no practice reps during the week, questionable status for Sunday and then a game-time decision. It's just a precautionary move since Gates could suffer a setback at any moment, but as long as he is good to go on Sundays, then start him in all Fantasy formats. Just look at what he has done at less than 100 percent.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates was still very productive despite a toe injury in Week 8 against the Titans. He caught five passes for 123 yards, including a 48-yard touchdown strike from QB Philip Rivers, in the 33-25 win on Sunday. Gates led San Diego in both receptions and receiving yards while being targeted for seven passes. Gates missed one series after halftime but returned shortly after to finish with his second-most productive performance of the season.
Analysis: Aside from missing one series, Gates did not seem effected at all by his lingering toe injury in Week 8. It was his third 100-yard game of the year and first since Week 4. He has caught at least one touchdown pass in all but one game this season and has nine on the year, his most since 2007. Gates continues to be the go-to guy for Rivers and has made up for some depleting injuries in San Diego's wide receiver depth chart. Gates will go up against the Texans in Week 9 who entered Sunday ranked dead-last in the league against the pass. Continue to view Gates as a No. 1 Fantasy TE and must-start in all leagues.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates was listed as active for Week 8 against the Titans. He only practiced one day leading up to Sunday's game while dealing with a toe injury. Gates missed all of last week's practices before playing against the Patriots, when he caught four passes for 50 yards and a touchdown. The Titans rank 23rd in the NFL against the pass, giving up an average of 230.4 yards per game, but have limited opposing tight ends to just 4.6 Fantasy points per contest.
Analysis: Gates has caught a touchdown in all but one game this season and should be able to find some open space in the Titans secondary in Week 8. Although Tennessee has a pretty solid defense, it has not slowed down some of the better tight ends they have faced thus far. Jason Witten caught five passes for 84 yards and a touchdown against their defense in Week 4 and Kevin Boss also had a big game against the Titans earlier in the year. Gates continues to be the go-to guy for QB Philip Rivers and, despite being limited by a toe injury in recent weeks, remains a top-flight Fantasy TE in all formats. Consider Gates a No.1 option and must-start in Week 8.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (toe) jogged routes and caught passes Friday, the first time he's practiced in two weeks. However, he is still being listed as questionable for Week 8 vs. Tennessee. In Week 8, San Diego host the Titans who rank 23rd in the NFL against the pass, giving up an average of 230.4 yards per game, but have limited opposing tight ends to just 4.6 Fantasy points per contest. In four career games against the Titans, Gates has caught 20 passes for 243 yards and three touchdowns.
Analysis: Gates has caught a touchdown in all but one game this season and should be able to find some open space in the Titans secondary in Week 8. Although Tennessee has a pretty solid defense, it has not slowed down some of the better tight ends they have faced thus far. Jason Witten caught five passes for 84 yards and a touchdown against their defense in Week 4 and Kevin Boss also had a big game against the Titans earlier in the year. Gates continues to be the go-to guy for Rivers and, despite being limited by a toe injury in recent weeks, remains a top-flight Fantasy TE in all formats. Consider Gates a No.1 option and must-start in Week 8 as long as he's active, which he should be.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (toe), who missed all of last week's practices before playing against the Patriots, hasn't practiced so far this week. The Chargers play the Titans in Week 8. "(I'm) trying to minimize as much pain as I can throughout the week, so I can go ahead and play on Sunday," Gates said. Tennessee ranks 23rd in the NFL against the pass, giving up an average of 230.4 yards per game, but have limited opposing tight ends to just 4.6 Fantasy points per contest. In four career games against the Titans, Gates has caught 20 passes for 243 yards and three touchdowns.
Analysis: Don't be surprised if the no-practice week becomes routine for Gates. It's not like he needs the practice. He has had years to develop rapport with QB Philip Rivers. Gates has caught a touchdown in all but one game this season and should be able to find some open space in the Titans secondary in Week 8. Although Tennessee has a pretty solid defense, it has not slowed down some of the better tight ends they have faced thus far. Jason Witten caught five passes for 84 yards and a touchdown against their defense in Week 4 and Kevin Boss also had a big game against the Titans earlier in the year. Gates continues to be the go-to guy for Rivers and, despite being limited by a toe injury in recent weeks, remains a top-flight Fantasy TE in all formats. Consider Gates a No.1 option and must-start in Week 8.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates has caught eight touchdown passes through the first seven games this season and will look to continue that success in Week 8 against the Titans. Tennessee ranks 23rd in the NFL against the pass, giving up an average of 230.4 yards per game, but have limited opposing tight ends to just 4.57 Fantasy points per contest. In four career games against the Titans, Gates has caught 20 passes for 243 yards and three touchdowns.
Analysis: Gates has caught a touchdown in all but one game this season and should be able to find some open space in the Titans secondary in Week 8. Although Tennessee has a pretty solid defense, they have not slowed down some of the better tight ends they have faced thus far. Jason Witten caught five passes for 84 yards and a touchdown against their defense in Week 4 and Kevin Boss also had a big game against the Titans earlier in the year. Gates continues to be the go-to guy for QB Philip Rivers in San Diego and, despite being limited by a toe injury in recent weeks, remains a top-flight Fantasy TE in all formats. Consider Gates a No.1 option and must-start in Week 8. He did not practice Wednesday, but Gates missed practice last week and still played, so he might get as much rest during the week so he can stay active for Sundays.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates, who did not practice this week because of a toe injury, scored his eighth touchdown of the season in Week 7 against the Patriots. Gates was held without a catch in the first half and didn't record his first reception until the fourth quarter. However, that first reception was a 4-yard touchdown pass from Philip Rivers. Gates was targeted five times and finished with four receptions for 50 yards and a touchdown in the 23-20 loss.
Analysis: Gates, who hasn't missed a game since 2005, was able to contribute on Sunday, but it was easy to see he wasn't at 100 percent. Gates looked slow coming off the ball and had trouble creating separation even though he faced constant double teams. Still, by scoring he was able to contribute for the 45 percent of Fantasy owners who started him. Gates is almost guaranteed to wind up on the injury report again this week, so owners should continue to monitor his status to see if he will be able to play against the Titans in Week 8. Consider Gates a must-start in all formats, when healthy.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates has been ruled active for Week 7 against the Patriots. Gates, who injured his toe against the Rams in Week 6, did not practice this week.
Analysis: Gates hasn't missed a game since 2005 and it appears that streak will stay intact on Sunday. Gates is having another fantastic season thus far and even at less than 100 percent, he is still better than some of the other options on the market. Gates could see a ton of balls heading in his direction as the Chargers will also be with WRs Malcom Floyd and Legedu Naanee. Get him active in all leagues.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (toe) missed a third straight day of practice Friday and is listed as questionable. San Diego hosts the Patriots in Week 7. Randy McMichael will likely start if Gates is unavailable.
Analysis: It's really tough to see Gates struggle with this toe injury since he has played through a myriad of toe problems in the past. He hasn't missed a game since 2005, and there's still a chance he's active Sunday if his toe continues to heal. Clearly, Gates is a must-start Fantasy option if he suits up in Week 7. A less than 100 percent Gates is still better than some of the other options on the market, especially if the Chargers are down WRs Malcom Floyd and Legedu Naanee, who are both battling injuries as well. Check to see on Sunday around 2: 45 p.m. ET to see if Gates is active or not. Unfortunately, this means any potential replacement for Gates you have in mind will also be having to play in the 4 p.m. games or later.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates sat out a second straight practice on Thursday because of a toe injury, leaving his status for Week 7 against the Patriots in jeopardy. Coach Norv Turner said on Monday he was hopeful Gates would be available on Sunday, but the longer he sits out his chances of playing are being reduced. "Part of me is waiting to see," the All-Pro tight end said Thursday. "I've been in a situation where (early in the week) I didn't think I'd play and then I played. And I've been in other situations, well, there actually haven't been any other situations."
Analysis: It's really tough to see Gates struggle with this toe injury since he has played through a myriad of toe injuries in the past. He hasn't missed a game since 2005. Although, this one finally looks as though it might get the best of him. Clearly, Gates is a must-start Fantasy option if he suits up in Week 7. A less than 100 percent Gates is still better than some of the other options on the market. Especially if the Chargers are down WRs Malcom Floyd and Legedu Naanee, who are both battling injuries as well. Friday will be a big news day in regards to Gates' status for Week 7.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates was absent from practice on Wednesday, recovering from the toe injury he suffered in Week 6 against the Rams. Chargers coach Norv Turner said on Monday that he is holding out hope that Gates will be available in Week 7 against the Patriots.
Analysis: Gates has had toe problems in the past, but he has usually played through them. He hasn't missed a game since 2005. Although, this one finally looks as though it might get the best of him. Clearly, Gates is a must-start Fantasy option if he suits up in Week 7. A less than 100 percent Gates is still better than some of the other options on the market. Especially if the Chargers are down WRs Malcom Floyd and Legedu Naanee, who are both battling injuries. Gates' presence will be needed even more. Stay tuned for the latest.
News: Chargers head coach Norv Turner said Monday that TE Antonio Gates has a sprained toe and that the team is holding out hope that he'll play vs. the Patriots in Week 7. He left the team's Week 6 game at St. Louis in the first half after getting his foot rolled up twice by other players and was in a walking boot after the game.
Analysis: We suspect that Gates is not a lock to play Sunday, and even if he does play he could be limited by the injury. If you own Gates, make it a point to have a backup plan in place in case he doesn't play. It's a shame, too, since the Pats have allowed three touchdowns to tight ends this year including Dustin Keller in Week 2 and Todd Heap just last week. We'll definitely keep you posted on the latest involving Gates all week.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates left the team's Week 6 loss to the Rams with a left ankle injury, and according to the San Diego Union-Tribune, the injury "doesn't look good." Gates is scheduled for X-rays and an MRI on Monday and speculation is that he has at the very least a severe ankle sprain after he was spotted in a walking boot after the game. Gates initially sustained the injury in the first quarter when a defender fell on him after a dropped pass. He left briefly at that point, but returned for the next drive, then left for good after a player landed on his ankle again. He finished with two catches for 12 yards, ending his NFL-record run by a tight end with touchdowns in nine consecutive regular-season games. "I couldn't put any pressure on it," said Gates after the game. "On that last play where Philip hit me down the middle, a guy fell on it again. The pain became really difficult to deal with at that point."
Analysis: If you have Gates, get a plan together as soon as possible to replace him as it appears he could miss some time. The Chargers are expected to replace him in the lineup with Randy McMichael, who should be considered more of a last-ditch fill-in than an ideal Fantasy backup. Other options include Benjamin Watson (CLE), Heath Miller (PIT) and possibly Fred Davis (WAS) if Chris Cooley misses his next game. We'll keep you posted on the latest on Gates all week long.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates left the Week 6 loss to the Rams late in the second quarter with a left ankle injury. He did not return in the second half. Gates initially sustained the injury in the first quarter when a defender fell on him after a dropped pass. He left briefly at that point, but returned for the next drive. X-rays are scheduled Monday for Gates, who said players landed on his leg a couple of times. "I just couldn't go, I couldn't move," Gates said. "It got real stiff." Gates finished with two catches for 12 yards, ending his NFL-record run by a tight end with touchdowns in nine consecutive regular-season games.
Analysis: Given that Gates was able to play and make a pair of catches after initially sustaining the injury, he could be available to play in Week 7 against the Patriots. Keep tabs on Gates' status, as losing him would be a huge blow to owners in all Fantasy formats. Coming into Week 6, Gates led all tight ends in Fantasy scoring.
News: Through the first five weeks of the season, the Chargers' Antonio Gates has been the most productive tight end in the league, and by a wide margin. He has accumulated 87.0 Fantasy points in standard scoring systems, which is 33 points more than the second-ranked tight end, Dustin Keller of the Jets. Gates has outgained all other tight ends by at least 138 yards. In Week 6, he heads to St. Louis to face a Rams' defense that has allowed the ninth-highest passing yardage total in the league. On the season, Gates has made 29 catches for 478 yards and seven touchdowns.
Analysis: The Rams have actually been fairly successful in limiting the Fantasy production of opposing tight ends so far this year, holding them to fewer than six Fantasy points per week on average. However, no team has been able to keep Gates out of the end zone this season, and only the Jaguars have succeeded in holding him to fewer than 75 receiving yards. The Rams hardly seem like the team to stop Gates' string of dominant performances. He is a must-start in general and especially in Week 6.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates had another fine performance in the Week 5 loss at Oakland. Gates, who was targeted by QB Philip Rivers seven times, caught five passes for 92 yards and scored. Gates scored on a 19-yard TD catch on a bullet pass from Rivers over the middle in the second quarter. With the touchdown, Gates extended his record for tight ends by catching a TD pass in his ninth straight game.
Analysis: Gates just missed going for at least 100 yards for the third straight game and his lowest total of the season was 57 yards Week 2 against Jacksonville. He scored two touchdowns in that game. Gates has scored in every game this season and has seven touchdowns on the year. Perhaps the No. 1 overall tight end in the NFL right now, Gates seems like a sure-fire Hall of Famer. He is also a must-start Fantasy option for Week 6 at St. Louis.
News: There have been no better Fantasy tight ends in the NFL than San Diego's Antonio Gates after four weeks of the season. Gates leads all players at his position in Fantasy points and is second in quarterback targets heading into the Week 5 game in Oakland. QB Philip Rivers said Gates just keeps getting better. "He could have been content to stay at the level he was four years ago," Rivers said. "But he works at it both physically and mentally. He's as explosive as he has ever been." Gates, who has back-to-back 100-yard receiving games and has scored at least one touchdown in every game thus far, played the Raiders twice last year and racked up 132 yards receiving on eight catches in those games without a touchdown.
Analysis: While Gates didn't score against the Raiders last year, he's already made six touchdown receptions this season, one more than New York's Dustin Keller for the league lead. The Raiders have not been very good against opposing tight ends this season either. They are giving up an average of eight Fantasy points per game to the position and have yet to face a tight end even in the same realm of ability as Gates. Just last week, Houston's Joel Dreessen racked up 73 yards and a touchdown on five catches against Oakland. Gates should be in line for a huge game and is a must-start Fantasy option as perhaps the top overall Fantasy TE for Week 5.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates became the fastest TE in NFL history to reach 500 career catches (114 games) in the Week 4 blowout win against the Cardinals. Gates scored two touchdowns on his way to a season-high 144 yards receiving on seven receptions. It was the fourth straight game that Gates scored a TD and his second consecutive 100-yard game. The Cardinals decided to cover Gates one-on-one with different personnel. On Gates first TD, during the Chargers opening drive, DB Adrian Wilson was covering him. On the second, LB Paris Lenon had he task of trying to cover the Pro Bowl TE. Both TDs were complete miss matches and QB Philip Rivers noticed them right away.
Analysis: Gates continues to make his case for being the best receiving TE in the NFL. He also continues to be Rivers' favorite option and was targeted seven times, catching every one of the passes. The Cardinals approach was to back off and allow the Chargers to complete shorter passes underneath, and thats exactly what Rivers did. Gates 33-yard TD on the opening drive was the longest pass completion of the day. In Week 5, the Chargers travel to Oakland to play the Raiders, who's defense allowed texans TE Joel Dreessen to catch five passes for 73 yards and a touchdown in Week 4. Consider Gates to be a must-start Fantasy option Week 5 against the Raiders.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates is off to another fast start, scoring a touchdown in each of the first three games of 2010. Dating back to last season, he has caught a TD in seven straight games, an NFL record for TEs. in the Week 4 matchup with the Cardinals, Gates goes up against a defense that has held TEs to just 138 yards in three games. Raiders TE Zach Miller was the most successful TE, totaling 64 yards on four receptions, including a TD against Arizona.
Analysis: Gates leads all TEs in touchdowns and is second in both targets (26) and yards (242). He is on his way to another Pro Bowl as Philip Rivers' unquestioned top receiving threat now that WR Vincent Jackson is not on the field. Gates just surpassed Shannon Sharpe for second most TDs amongst TEs in NFL history with 63 in his career. Against the Cardinals, Gates remains a must-start Fantasy option in all formats.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates has scored in three straight games to open the season. Gates was targeted a team-high 13 times, catching seven of them for 109 yards and one touchdown, giving him four on the year. Gates had a touchdown get negated by a penalty, only to score on the following play. In the fourth quarter and trailing by seven points, QB Philip Rivers was able to to hit Gates for passes 25 and 19 yards as the Seahawks were playing a soft zone. In the second to last play of the game for San Diego, Rivers targeted Gates in the end zone, but would not connect for the score.
Analysis: Gates has 242 yards and four touchdowns on the season as he's become the No. 1 target with Vincent Jackson still serving his suspension. He now has 63 career receiving touchdowns and will look to add to that total in Week 4 against Arizona. The Cardinals gave up four catches for 64 yards and a touchdown to Oakland TE Zach Miller, so Gates could be in store for another big day. Gates is a must-start Fantasy TE and should not be benched.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates has been in the league eight seasons, but only faced his Week 3 opponent once. In his lone game against the Seahawks, Gates had two catches for 63 yards. Seattle is allowing 259 yards passing per game and given up just two touchdowns through the air. Gates could give the Seahawks fits as he's caught 18 passes for 252 yards and six touchdowns over his last five games (dating back to last season). He'll be aiming for his seventh consecutive game with a touchdown catch in Week 3.
Analysis: With Vincent Jackson suspended, Gates has been big for QB Philip Rivers through two games. Gates has 10 catches for 133 yards and three scores so far in 2010. Gates caught his 62nd career touchdown in Week 2 and looks to add to it versus Seattle. Despite not having a lot of history against his Week 3 foe, Gates is too valuable to Fantasy owners not to start. He is an elite Fantasy TE and should be active in all lineups on Sunday.
News: San Diego TE Antonio Gates caught two touchdown passes from Philip Rivers on Sunday against Jacksonville. The scoring catches of 9 and 4 yards would tie him with former Broncos TE Shannon Sharpe for second on the TE all-time touchdown list. Gates' 62 career touchdowns also ranks third among undrafted players. Gates was targeted a team-high seven times, catching five passes for 57 yards.
Analysis: Gates did see some double teams, but was able to get open for Rivers. With Vincent Jackson suspended, Gates has quickly become the go-to guy in San Diego. In two weeks this season Gates has 10 catches for 133 yards and three scores. The Chargers take on the Seahawks -- a team that allowed 307 yards to Kyle Orton in Week 2 -- next week. Rivers, Gates and company could have a field day in Seattle. He is an elite Fantasy TE for a reason; owners should keep him active heading into Week 3.
News: In the absence of WR Vincent Jackson, TE Antonio Gates is now the biggest offensive threat on the Chargers. Gates will likely see a heavy dose of double coverage until either Malcom Floyd or Legedu Naanee prove that they are a threat comparable to Jackson. Gates caught five passes for 76 yards and a touchdown in Week 1 on the road in Kansas City.
Analysis: In Week 2, Gates and the Chargers head home to host the Jaguars. The eight-year veteran has more receptions and yards on the road so far in his career, but has scored 36 TDs at home. Jacksonville gave up 274 yards through the air in Week 1against the Broncos. In 2009 the Jags allowed just five touchdowns to tight ends, and they faced Dallas Clark twice, so they are used to elite TEs. Gates should be viewed as a No. 1 TE in Week 2.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates had a solid performance in Week 1 against the Chiefs. The 30-year-old caught five passes for 76 yards, including a 3-yard touchdown catch from Philip Rivers in the first quarter. He was targeted six times in the game and averaged 15.2 yards per reception.
Analysis: Gates showed why he is one of the more productive tight ends in the league on Monday night and had a long catch of 34. He led all tight ends in receiving yardage last season (1,157) and should be able to repeat that feat as the teams No. 1 option. He has a favorable matchup in Week 2 against the Jaguars as Jacksonville gave up 295 passing yards and a TD in Week 1.
News: San Diego TE Antonio Gates has enjoyed great success against his Week 1 opponent -- Kansas City. Gates has 803 receiving yards with 11 touchdowns in 12 career games against the Chiefs, which the most yards and touchdowns he has had against any one opponent. In his last game against Kansas City, Gates had seven grabs for 118 yards (16.9 avg) with two touchdowns. The Chiefs ranked 22nd in pass defense last season.
Analysis: Gates led all tight ends in receiving yardage last season (1,157) and was fourth in both receptions (79) and touchdowns (8). His 14.6 YPC was highest among tight ends and he has led the Chargers in receptions for six straight seasons. He does seem to get dinged up a bit, but has been able to play in all 16 games in each of the last four seasons. Gates is one of Philip Rivers favorite targets and should be considered a No. 1 TE heading into Week 1.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates caught a team-high five passes for 66 yards in Friday's preseason game at the Saints. He was targeted seven times. Gates entered the game with just two catches for 12 yards in the team's first two preseason games.
Analysis: Gates led all tight ends in receiving yardage last season (1,157), and was fourth in both receptions (79) and touchdowns (8). While he always seems to be nicked up, Gates has started 16 games each of the last four seasons, so he always shows up on Sunday. Continue to draft him early in all formats as a Top-3 Fantasy TE around Round 5.
News: Don't look now, but the Chargers have been using TE Antonio Gates as a receiver during some of their practices. Gates has lined up flexed out of the traditional tight end spot before, but with the team's bulk of tight ends and lack of effective receivers, there's a real shot Gates will find himself lined up outside more often than normal. "Our package is so difficult that teams are going to have to pick their poison and decide what they want to do," Gates told the North County Times. "Not only can you move me out to receiver, but you can do the same with Kris and Randy. That versatility makes us unpredictable, and it makes us dangerous."
Analysis: The reality is that Gates will be on the field a lot for the Chargers this season, giving him the same platform to be a Fantasy stud as in years past. He's a Top-3 Fantasy TE worth a pick around Round 5 in all leagues.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates returned to practice Tuesday after missing a day due to a sore hamstring. He sat out Monday afternoon's session.
Analysis: Gates led all tight ends in receiving yardage last season (1,157), and was fourth in both receptions (79) and touchdowns (8). While he always seems to be nicked up, Gates has started 16 games each of the last four seasons, so he always shows up on Sunday. He was likely held out of practice for precautionary reasons, so continue to regard him as an elite Fantasy option at TE.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates missed the evening practice Monday with a minor hamstring irritation. Gates is day to day and likely will return in a couple of days for the Chargers. Gates has continued to be one of Philip Rivers' favorite targets in camp and has appeared to be on top of his game.
Analysis: Gates, who was already one of the league's best tight ends, is coming off one of his better years in 2009. He led the Chargers with 79 grabs for a career-best 1,157 yards with eight scores. His 14.6 YPC was highest among tight ends. Since his rookie campaign in 2003, Gates leads all tight ends in TD catches with 59. He is second in yards (6,223) and third in catches (479). He has also led the Chargers in catches in six straight seasons. This injury is not considered serious and we don't expect a big dropoff for Gates this year, either. Continue drafting him as a solid No. 1 Fantasy TE in all formats.
News: The Chargers agreed to terms on Wednesday with six-time Pro Bowl tight end Antonio Gates on a new contract through the 2015 season. The deal is worth $36.175 million over five years, making him the NFL's highest-paid tight end. "Antonio is a special player and person. He is everything we are looking for in a Chargers player," said GM A.J. Smith. "His talent and contributions to our team speak for themselves. His work ethic and desire to be the best are unmatched. He has been a major part of the success we have had over the past several years, and we are thrilled he will continue to be with us for years to come." Gates is glad to stay with San Diego. "I’ve been blessed my whole career to be with one team," Gates said. "It’s always good to get (the contract) out of the way. The goal is to win a championship. We all are human and it becomes a distraction even though you might not want it to be. It’s always great to be able to go ahead and do what you need to do and get it out of the way."
Analysis: Gates is coming off one of his finest seasons in 2009, leading the Chargers with 79 catches. He also had a career-best 1,157 yards, while adding eight touchdowns. His 14.6 yards per catch was highest among NFL tight ends. Since his rookie campaign in 2003, Gates leads all tight ends in TD catches with 59. He is second in yards (6,223) and third in catches (479). He has also led the Chargers in catches in six straight seasons. While playing for his next contract is now off the table as motivation in 2010, we don't expect a big dropoff for Gates. He is still a favorite target of QB Philip Rivers and should post stats worthy of being a No. 1 Fantasy TE.
News:Antonio Gates' battle with plantar fasciitis is easing, the tight end told the San Diego Union-Tribune, but he's still unsure if he'll be at 100 percent for the start of training camp. Gates missed a recent series of practices while he got his foot checked out by a doctor in North Carolina, though the visit was deemed "nothing dramatic" by Gates. The star tight end said it no longer hurts him to walk, so he hopes he can come back to the field soon. "Once I start back running I will kind of get an idea," said Gates. "Then I can determine whether the foot is healthy enough."
Analysis: We don't love hearing that Gates isn't running and isn't sure if he'll be at 100 percent when he starts running, but it's June and there's time for him to get healthy. The Chargers' addition of TE Randy McMichael this offseason suggests that the team wants an insurance policy for their star in case he's not ready -- another sign Fantasy owners shouldn't be happy about. We'll keep you posted on Gates' health heading into 2010, but we obviously love him as a stud No. 1 Fantasy TE so long as he's healthy.
News: The Chargers bolstered an already-talented group of tight ends Thursday by signing free agent Randy McMichael to a one-year contract. "Randy has been a targeted player for us for some time now," GM A.J. Smith said. "With the departure of Brandon (Manumaleuna) to the Bears, we wanted to sign another veteran. We were hoping that would be Randy. We're happy it all worked out. We just thought it made good football sense to add a player like Randy. He brings veteran experience and added leadership to our team." The nine-year veteran started all but one of the 116 games he played for the Dolphins and Rams since he entered the league in 2002. The 6-foot-3, 246 pound McMichael played under Norv Turner when the Chargers' head coach was the offensive coordinator in Miami in 2002-03. "We're excited to add Randy to the team," Turner said. "He brings experience and added depth to the tight end position." McMichael caught at least 60 passes in three consecutive seasons with the Dolphins in 2004-06, amassing 2,013 yards and 12 touchdowns in that span. He joins a group that already includes the NFL's top pass-catching tight end, Antonio Gates, as well as returning veteran Kris Wilson, seventh-round draft pick Dedrick Epps and undrafted rookie Richie Brockel.
Analysis: McMichael now gives the Chargers some insurance in case Gates' foot injury is more serious than what is being let on. He has a minor form of plantar fasciitis and should get better with 2-3 weeks rest, but the injury could be why McMichael was signed. We still expect Gates to be fine, but keep an eye on his recovery once training camp starts. When healthy, Gates is a No. 1 Fantasy TE and one of the best players at his position. He should be drafted in all leagues as early as Round 4.
News: The San Diego Union-Tribune reports that Chargers TE Antonio Gates insists that his injured foot will be fine. Red flags were raised with he missed minicamp to see a foot specialist in North Carolina, but he only went during minicamp because of the doctor's scheduling issue. He has a minor form of plantar fasciitis and should get better with 2-3 weeks rest. "It's fine," Gates said. "I just wanted to make sure it was nothing dramatic."
Analysis: We expect Gates to be fine, and he should be on the field for the start of training camp. Still, continue to monitor his status prior to Draft Day. When healthy, Gates is a No. 1 Fantasy TE and one of the best players at his position. He should be drafted in all leagues as early as Round 4.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates was still absent from Thursday's minicamp practice. He had his sore foot looked at Wednesday in North Carolina. "I think they gave him some treatment, and I think he's going to be fine," coach Norv Turner said. The San Diego Union-Tribune reports that Gates could return to minicamp Friday, although he's not expected to practice.
Analysis: Turner initially downplayed the foot injury, saying "it's nothing that we have a major concern about," but it's definitely something Fantasy owners need to monitor. As long as Gates is ready for the start of training camp he should be fine. When healthy, Gates is a No. 1 Fantasy TE and one of the best players at his position. He should be drafted in all leagues as early as Round 4.
News: The official team website for the Chargers reports that TE Antonio Gates was excused from minicamp Wednesday to have his foot checked by a doctor in North Carolina. Head coach Norv Turner downplayed the absence, saying Gates might be back in time for Thursday's workouts. "He's had soreness and it's nothing that's long-term," Turner said. "It's nothing that we have a major concern about, but it's something we want to take care of now instead of letting it turn into something that's lingering."
Analysis: Gates, who battled a foot injury in 2009, was likely just getting a checkup, but this is something we'll continue to monitor in the short-term. We don't expect him to have a problem, and hopefully we'll hear word that it was just a routine visit. When healthy, Gates is a No. 1 Fantasy TE and one of the best players at his position. He should be drafted in all leagues as early as Round 4 and no later than the end of Round 6.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates said in an interview with CBSSports.com that he was proud of his season in 2009. Gates had 79 catches for a career-high 1,157 yards and eight touchdowns. He was glad he was able to bounce back from toe and hip injuries over the past two years and play at a high enough level to make his sixth Pro Bowl. Gates said he still considers himself the best TE in the NFL. "It's a situation that once you set a standard you have to constantly keep going and constantly do things where you can challenge yourself," he said. "Every year is a challenge. It's a challenge I have. You always set goals for yourself. I'm never complacent. I'm always striving to become better. That's just my motive."
Analysis: Chargers coach Norv Turner agreed that Gates still is an elite TE and deserving of his Pro Bowl berth. "It was big for Antonio because he was the healthiest he's been since he hurt his toe in the playoffs two years ago," Turner said. "The combination of his experience, his explosiveness, his health and just the consistency he gave us is incredible. He had his best year yards per catch, he had his best year in total yards. We played in a lot of close games, so those aren't phony stats. Those are stats that help you win. There are guys who have great stats in the fourth quarter or when they're way ahead or way behind. Antonio's stats are real in terms of when the game's on the line he was awfully productive." Gates is a No. 1 Fantasy TE in all leagues heading into 2010, and he's worth drafting around Round 4 or 5 since he should continue to post great stats again next year.
News: San Diego TE Antonio Gates caught eight passes for 93 yards in a 17-14 defeat to New York on Sunday. In possibly the highlight of the night, Gates made a spectacular, one-handed catch for 23 yards as Rivers was going down.
Analysis: Gates scored touchdowns in each of the final four games of the regular season and had six in his last six games. This was his finest season in the NFL in terms of receiving yardage and he’s had at least eight touchdown catches in six straight seasons. He will enter 2010 as a No. 1 Fantasy TE and is one of the best in the NFL.
News: San Diego TE Antonio Gates caught one pass for 12 yards over two series of plays before being removed from the Week 17 regular-season finale against Washington. Gates’ grab, however, was a perfectly thrown 12-yard TD pass from starter Philip Rivers before he left the game. Gates’ regular season is over after 79 receptions for 1,157 yards and eight touchdowns.
Analysis: Gates scored touchdowns in each of the final four games of the season and had six in his last six games. This was his finest season in the NFL in terms of receiving yardage and he’s had at least eight touchdown catches in six straight seasons. He will enter 2010 as very much a No. 1 Fantasy TE and is one of the best in the NFL.
News: The Chargers are locked into the No. 2 seed in the AFC -- they can do no better and no worse regardless of the result of their Week 17 game vs. Washington. But there's a lot of uncertainty over what the Chargers will do this week against the Redskins since they haven't been in this position in any of their last three seasons. Head coach Norv Turner said that limiting players with injuries would be a priority, but given that the Chargers pulled their starters in their game last week against the Titans once a win was in hand clearly represents that the team is willing to do such a thing. Count on it happening again -- in fact, it wouldn't be a surprise to see one or two high-profile starters listed as inactive on Sunday before kickoff, with Vincent Jackson a likely option since he was limited or held out of practice this week with an Achilles' injury.
Analysis: If you own any of the Chargers' studs -- Philip Rivers, LaDainian Tomlinson, Jackson, Antonio Gates and even Darren Sproles -- you're in a tough spot if you need them in Week 17. You cannot expect them to play a full game against the Redskins, especially if they can't improve their playoff seeding. Consider other options before going with any of these guys in Week 17 since they could seriously disappoint. Check out what else we have to say about players on playoff-bound teams who might rest in Week 17.
News: San Diego TE Antonio Gates scored a touchdown Friday at Tennessee. He finished with three catches for 74 yards. Gates has now scored a touchdown in three games in a row and has five touchdowns in his past five games.
Analysis: Gates has closed the season on a tear and continues to play at a high level. He might not play much in Week 17 against Washington since the Chargers have locked up the No. 2 seed in the AFC and could rest their starters. Keep an eye on what San Diego decides to do in the season finale, but you might want to prepare to keep Gates reserved if he's not going to play much against the Redskins.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates caught four passes for 33 yards in Week 15 against San Diego, including a 3-yard touchdown in the first quarter. He was targeted four times in the game.
Analysis: Gates has had a down year in terms of touchdowns, but his sixth score of the season could not have come at a better time for his Fantasy owners. He remains one of the elite tight ends in all of Fantasy and he should be started in all leagues for Week 16 at Tennessee.
News:Philip Rivers bailed the Chargers out of trouble with several third-down throws and hit Antonio Gates for a go-ahead touchdown in the fourth quarter, lifting San Diego to a 20-17 victory over the Dallas Cowboys in Week 14. The Chargers took a 17-10 lead as Rivers found Gates on a 14-yard strike at the 10:56 mark of the fourth quarter. Gates finished with four catches for 44 yards. He has three touchdowns in his last three games.
Analysis: Gates broke 1,000 yards for the season in Week 14. It was only the second time in his career that he has reached that plateau. The only negative against Gates this season is that he has only five touchdowns. Still, you could be doing a lot worse at tight end. Gates remains a must-start Fantasy option through thick and thin. The Chargers play the Bengals in Week 15.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates, who entered the game with two 100-yard games all season, recorded his second in as many games Week 13 at Cleveland. He led the team with a season-high 167 yards on eight receptions.
Analysis: Gates never lost his elite status in Fantasy, but he has regained his place as QB Philip Rivers' favorite receiving option after playing second fiddle to Vincent Jackson much of the year. His four touchdown receptions have come in only two games, which is frustrating in Fantasy, but 1,000-yard tight ends are few and far between. With this performance, he's at 994. Keep him active for Week 14 at Dallas.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates had a solid performance on Sunday in a Week 12 win over the Chiefs. He had two touchdowns and 118 yards on seven receptions in the 43-14 victory. His first TD pass in the first quarter was from 19 yards out and the second TD grab came from 15 yards out in the second quarter. Gates was the team’s leader in both receptions and receiving yards.
Analysis: Gates has four touchdowns this season, scoring his other two in a Week 4 loss at Pittsburgh. His lack of touchdowns this season has been somewhat frustrating to Fantasy owners, but he has still been one of the top-producing TEs in the game. He could be in for another big game Week 13 at Cleveland as the Browns’ passing defense is near the bottom of the league.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates, playing a second straight game with a foot injury, had four catches for a season-low 41 yards Week 11 at Denver. His injury wasn't to blame, though. The Chargers had only 145 yards through the air, instead leaning heavily on their running game.
Analysis: Considering how little the Chargers threw the ball, Gates was still a huge part of the offense, as he is every week. Few tight ends can make that claim. Gates' numbers might have declined a bit with the emergence of Vincent Jackson over the last couple years, but he's still a No. 1 Fantasy option and a must-start Week 12 against the Chiefs.
News: Charters TE Antonio Gates, who dealt with a foot injury in practice for the second straight week, is active for Week 11 at Denver. He played with the injury last week and had five catches for 70 yards.
Analysis: This injury shouldn't affect Gates in the game, so don't even think about sitting him in Fantasy. He's a big part of the offense every week and one of those tight ends you start regardless of matchups.
News: San Diego TE Antonio Gates was able to practice in full on Thursday and Friday as the team prepares for its Week 11 game at Denver. He is considered probable for the game.
Analysis: Gates has been putting up consistent numbers most weeks this season but has failed to catch a TD pass in each of his past five games and has only two touchdowns overall, both coming Week 4 at Pittsburgh. He should have more TDs than he does, so look for him to make up for lost time in the second half of the season. Gates remains a No. 1 Fantasy option for Week 11 at Denver. In Week 6, Gates caught five passes for 70 yards against the Broncos at home. The injury should not keep him out of the game.
News: San Diego TE Antonio Gates had a strong performance on Sunday in a Week 10 win over the Eagles. He caught seven passes in the game, gaining a total of 78 yards. His longest reception in the game went for 20 yards.
Analysis: Gates has been putting up consistent numbers most weeks this season but has failed to catch a TD pass in each of his past five games and has only two touchdowns overall, both coming Week 4 at Pittsburgh. He should have more TDs than he does, so look for him to make up for lost time in the second half of the season. Gates remains a No. 1 Fantasy option for Week 11 at Denver. In Week 6, Gates caught five passes for 70 yards against the Broncos at home.
News: San Diego TE Antonio Gates (foot) is active for the team's Week 10 game against the Eagles. Gates dealt with the same foot injury leading up to Week 9 against the Giants, but played and totaled 67 yards on five catches.
Analysis: What we don't want to see with Gates is this injury linger since a toe issue gave him problems in 2008. It's nothing to panic about however, so keep Gates active for Week 10 as he will be active.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (foot) did not practice on Wednesday but returned to a full practice on Thursday as the team prepares for Week 10 vs. Philadelphia. Gates dealt with the same foot injury leading up to Week 9 against the Giants, but played and totaled 67 yards on five catches.
Analysis: What we don't want to see with Gates is this injury linger since a toe issue gave him problems in 2008. It's nothing to panic about however, so keep Gates active for Week 10 unless you hear otherwise.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates totaled five catches for 67 yards during a Week 9 win against the Giants. His longest reception went 29 yards and he was targeted a team-high eight times. Unfortunately, he failed to score for a fourth straight game.
Analysis: Gates came into Week 9 battling a foot injury, but he definitely wasn't slowed against the Giants. Gates has scored just once in eight games this season. It has been a little disappointing Gates hasn't found the end zone a lot more this season, but he is still one of the best play-making tight ends in the NFL. Continue to view him as a No. 1 Fantasy TE. The Chargers play the Eagles in Week 10.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (foot) is active and expected to start in Week 9 at N.Y. Giants. He was at full practice later in the week after limited reps on Wednesday. Gates was listed as probable on the injury report.
Analysis: Gates was never in jeopardy of missing the Giants game. We just hope he is in good enough shape to make a significant impact. The Giants secondary has been awful the last few weeks, so keep Gates active as a No. 1 Fantasy TE.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (foot) went through limited practice reps on Wednesday then returned to a full practice on Thursday and Friday as the team prepares for Week 9 at N.Y. Giants. Gates was active in Week 8 against the Raiders and had three catches for 49 yards. He is considered probable for Week 9.
Analysis: Gates had a toe issue in 2008 that definitely slowed him at times, so hopefully this foot injury doesn't linger. He isn't in jeopardy yet of missing Week 9, so keep him active as a No. 1 Fantasy TE.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates, who had a season-low 55 yards receiving last week, took another step back Week 8 against the Raiders. He finished with three catches for 49 yards. He has only once gone for 100 yards in a game this season.
Analysis: In fairness, QB Philip Rivers threw for a season-low 249 yards, but that's still enough for an elite tight end like Gates to make a significant contribution. Vincent Jackson has apparently passed him as Rivers' go-to guy, which makes Gates a little more hit-or-miss in Fantasy. Still, you won't find anyone better than him off the waiver wire. He remains a must-start for Week 9 at the Giants.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates caught five passes for 55 yards in Week 7 at Kansas City. He was targeted six times in the game. He has had at least five catches in every game this season.
Analysis: Gates remains one of the elite tight ends in all of Fantasy as a regularly targeted receiver in a high-powered offense. He can even be viewed as a viable No. 2 receiver in leagues that don't differentiate among receivers. The Chargers have a very favorable matchup against the Raiders in Week 8.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates led the team with five catches for 70 yards Week 6 on Monday night in a loss to Denver. Gates had a long grab of 21 yards and displayed flashy moves all night. That said, he did not find the end zone.
Analysis: Gates has at least five catches in every game thus far and also has at least 64 yards receiving in each. Gates scored two touchdowns Week 4 against Pittsburgh before the bye. He remains one of the best Fantasy TEs in football. The team plays at Kansas City in Week 7 and that makes Gates perhaps the top TE option in Week 7.
News: San Diego TE Antonio Gates is coming off a bye week in Week 5 after he had a huge game at Pittsburgh with nine catches for 124 yards and two touchdowns Week 4. The Chargers play Denver Week 6 and the Broncos are one of the best pass defenses in football. In two games against Denver last season, Gates hauled in seven receptions for 110 yards and no scores.
Analysis: The Broncos don't give up passing touchdowns very often with just two on the season thus far. Gates should have a chance to do it, if anyone has a chance, and that keeps him a No. 1 Fantasy option for Week 6.
News:Antonio Gates had been quiet through three weeks this season. Not anymore -- the Chargers tight end thrashed a Steelers secondary still sorely missing safety Troy Polamalu, catching a team-high nine passes for 124 yards and two touchdowns in Week 4 at Pittsburgh. Both of Gates' scores came in the second half as the Chargers rallied to make their game interesting. Gates last had two touchdowns in a game in Week 16 last year and last had 100 yards receiving vs. the Ravens in Week 12 of the 2007 season.
Analysis: Gates struggled with the Steelers twice last season but that didn't stop many Fantasy owners from using the burly, physical receiving option in Week 4. He and the Chargers will have a rest next week but will return to take on the Broncos at home in Week 6. That's a team he didn't play well against last season -- before their defense was re-tooled for this season -- but Gates is too valuable a player at a thin position to consider for the bench. Find a bye-week replacement for Week 5, then count on Gates as your starter for the rest of the season.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates will face a non-division opponent in Week 4 at Pittsburgh. The Steelers have allowed 212.7 net passing yards per game through the first three weeks of the season, including four passing touchdowns. They rank 15th in the NFL in pass defense.
Analysis: The Steelers pass defense is not nearly as menacing without Troy Polamalu, who will not be available for Week 4. However, they have not allowed more than 41 receiving yards to a tight end through the first three weeks and Gates will have one of his biggest challenges of the season against the defending champions. He faced a similar matchup in Week 2 against Baltimore and made out well with five catches for 78 yards. Gates remains a must-start tight end in most leagues regardless of matchups. The Chargers will find ways to get him the ball.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates hauled in five catches for 64 yards during a Week 3 win against the Dolphins. His longest reception went for 19 yards and he was targeted eight times. Unfortunately, Gates was held out of the end zone for a third straight game.
Analysis: Gates has had a pretty steady stat line through the first three weeks. He has managed five catches, been held under 100 yards and has no touchdowns. The last part is the biggest anomaly since Gates has eight or more touchdowns the last five seasons. He still has plenty of time to make up the difference, but we see how his lack of TDs can be frustrating to Fantasy owners. Gates remains one of the better pass-catching tight ends and is still a No. 1 Fantasy option. The Chargers play the Steelers in Week 4.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates will face a non-division opponent in Week 3 vs. Miami. The Dolphins have allowed 254 net passing yards per game in the first two weeks of the regular season, including four touchdown passes. In Week 3, the Dolphins allowed Colts TE Dallas Clark to catch seven passes for 183 yards and a touchdown. Falcons TE Tony Gonzalez caught five passes for 73 yards and a touchdown against them in Week 1.
Analysis: The Dolphins held Gates to just one catch for 12 yards last season, but we don't expect the chances of that repeating are very good. The Dolphins have been torched by the best tight ends in the league through the first two weeks and that is very likely to continue in Week 3. Gates is a must-start each week in leagues that require a tight end, but this particular matchup makes Gates a strong play even in leagues where he just qualifies as a receiver.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates hauled in five catches for 78 yards during a Week 2 loss to the Ravens. Gates, who was targeted seven times, had a long reception of 37 yards but no touchdowns. He has 10 catches for 161 yards in two games.
Analysis: After being plagued by injury in 2008, Gates is finally healthy and looks like his former self. Although he has no touchdowns, Gates is showing big-play ability and the scores should come with time. Gates remains a No. 1 Fantasy TE heading into Week 3 against the Dolphins.
News: The Chargers host Baltimore in Week 2. San Diego TE Antonio Gates should be looking forward to the game after he posted six catches for 105 yards with two touchdowns in a 2007 meeting with the Ravens.
Analysis: Gates opened the season with his usual solid outing, although he didn't find the end zone against the Raiders. He is in the elite group of five Fantasy TEs and remains a must-start option in all formats.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates led the Chargers in receiving yards and tied for the team-high in receptions on Monday in a 24-20 win over the Raiders. Gates made five catches in the game for a total of 83 yards. His longest catch of the day went for 25 yards. Gates nearly scored once in the game, getting stopped at the one yard line. He lobbied for the score but his knee was clearly down before the ball broke the plane of the end zone.
Analysis: Gates was experiencing general soreness in the preseason and missed some of the preseason but appeared to be fine on Monday against the Raiders. The Chargers' offense is expected to be potent in 2009 and Gates is one of the main reasons. He is one of the top Fantasy TEs and should be active in all formats at all times. However, he does have a tough matchup in Week 2 against the Ravens defense.
News: San Diego TE Antonio Gates did not play in Friday's preseason game against the 49ers as expected due to soreness. However, he is probable for the start of the regular season.
Analysis: It's not surprising to see the Chargers be very careful with their star tight end. He is one of the best options at the TE position in Fantasy and a must-start in all formats.
News: San Diego RB LaDainian Tomlinson and TE Antonio Gates were held out of the Chargers' preseason game against the Falcons. Gates' status for the game Saturday night had been uncertain. He missed three practices during the week with what he said was general soreness. Tomlinson had 12 carries for 28 yards in the Chargers' first two preseason games. A Chargers spokesman said Tomlinson has no reported injury.
Analysis: Tomlinson and Gates were in uniform and participated in pregame warmups. Darren Sproles started at running back instead of Tomlinson. Brandon Manumaleuna started at tight end. Tomlinson is not the top option in Fantasy anymore but is still the top dog in San Diego for now and worthy of a late first round pick on Draft Day. Gates is one of the top options at the tight end position in Fantasy. Both players should be good to go for the start of the regular season.
News: The San Diego Union-Tribune reports that it is likely that tight end Antonio Gates will skip Saturday's preseason game in Atlanta. Gates missed his third straight practice with what is being described as general soreness. "I'm totally fine," Gates said.
Analysis: Fantasy owners should not be alarmed by this, but we do want to keep you informed about a star player like Gates' every move. We still view Gates as a No. 1 Fantasy TE, and he's worth drafting in all leagues with a mid-round pick as a starting option.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates sat out the team's afternoon practice Tuesday because of general soreness. Afterward, he told reporters he was fine.
Analysis: Fantasy owners should not be alarmed by this, but we do want to keep you informed about a star player like Gates' every move. We still view Gates as a No. 1 Fantasy TE, and he's worth drafting in all leagues with a mid-round pick as a starting option.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates said Friday he's regained the jumping ability that he lost last year because of ankle and foot problems. "The ability to jump was something that (injuries) took a toll on the most," he said.
Analysis: It sounds like Gates is getting closer to making a full recovery, and he's ready to prove it during training camp. We still view Gates as a No. 1 Fantasy TE, and he's worth drafting in all leagues with a mid-round pick as a starting option.
News: The official team Web site reports that Chargers TE Antonio Gates was not in every practice during the club's recent minicamp. He worked out on Friday, but not Saturday as he recovers from toe and ankle problems stemming from last season. Gates says his ankle still hurts him. "(Gates) is just going to be on and off a little bit," coach Norv Turner said. "It's the same deal with some of these guys that are continuing on their rehab."
Analysis: While many Fantasy pundits will consider Antonio Gates' 2008 season to be a bust, the reality is that he's a stud at a position thin on productive talent, and that alone will make him a desirable Fantasy option. He posted just 704 yards on 60 catches last year (11.7 avg.) with eight touchdowns, his worst totals since his rookie year, all while playing through injuries. Gates should be OK for the 2009 campaign, so any slip he takes in drafts this summer will be somebody's gain. Be that somebody -- consider him a stud No. 1 Fantasy TE well worth a fifth- or sixth-round pick in drafts this summer (almost right after you see at least one of Dallas Clark, Jason Witten and Tony Gonzalez go off draft boards). If you get him past then, it's larceny.
News: Rob Chudzinski returned to the San Diego Chargers' staff on Wednesday to coach tight ends and serve as assistant head coach. Chudzinski, the Cleveland Browns' offensive coordinator the past two seasons, coached the Chargers' tight ends from 2005-06. Antonio Gates recorded career highs in catches and yards receiving in 2005 and made the Pro Bowl in both of Chudzinski's seasons with the team.
Analysis: Gates' 704 receiving yards this season represent his fewest since his rookie 2003 season, which is surprising considering QB Philip Rivers threw for 4,009 yards. Injuries contributed to his struggles, though. Gates will remain an elite Fantasy TE going into next season considering his size and ability, but he isn't quite the slam dunk he once was. He's still a No. 1 option, but he slides to being a fifth-round choice in drafts this summer.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates, who missed practice this week because of a high ankle sprain, managed to play in Sunday's Divisional Playoff game at Pittsburgh. He finished with five catches for 59 yards.
Analysis: Gates' 704 receiving yards this season represent his fewest since his rookie 2003 season, which is surprising considering QB Philip Rivers threw for 4,009 yards. Injuries contributed to his struggles, though. Gates will remain an elite Fantasy TE going into next season considering his size and ability, but he isn't quite the slam dunk he once was.
News: San Diego TE Antonio Gates did not practice this week as the Chargers prepare for Sunday's Division Playoff game at Pittsburgh. Gates is dealing with a high ankle sprain that definitely will not be healed by Sunday. That said, he's been dealing with it for a while now and toughing it out. He caught eight balls for 87 yards in the Wild Card win over the Colts.
Analysis: Gates caught just two passes for 10 yards the last time he faced Pittsburgh this season but he's still a very high-end Fantasy option in playoff leagues, if healthy. Barring a setback, Gates will likely be able to play against the Steelers.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates was questionable before the Chargers' game but ended up leading the team in receiving with eight catches for 87 yards with a long of 30 yards on the night. Gates suffered from a sprained ankle the entire week in practice, but looked fine against the Colts in a 23-17 overtime win.
Analysis: Gates appeared to be fine and his stats prove that. You can continue thinking of him as one of the top options at tight end in the league and in Fantasy. He is a must-start in playoff leagues going forward to the divisional playoffs.
News: According to the San Diego Union Tribune TE Antonio Gates' availability for the Chargers' upcoming playoff game against the Colts is still unknown as his sprained ankle is still a major concern. “If we were playing today, (Gates) probably wouldn't play,” Head Coach Norv Turner said. “I'm optimistic he will be able to play.” Gates said he hasn't yet “tried to determine whether I can actually do it or not,” implying that he went out Thursday to work out a “game plan” for having the injured area wrapped and getting him ready to play. Gates did not practice all week and is listed as questionable for the game.
Analysis: With Gates hurt for a second consecutive post season, Fantasy owners find themselves in a bit of a bind. Gates is clearly one of the top options in Fantasy if he's healthy, but that's not going to happen this postseason. He'll likely be injured throughout the Chargers' playoff run no matter how long it lasts. Gates is a No. 1 Fantasy TE for the playoffs, but only if he plays which is still a major question mark.
News: Chargers stars LaDainian Tomlinson and Antonio Gates missed a second straight practice Thursday as San Diego continued to prepare for its home wild-card playoff game against the Indianapolis Colts on Saturday night. It sounds as if Tomlinson, who has a strained groin, is in better shape than Gates, who has a sprained ankle. "If we were playing today he probably wouldn't play," coach Norv Turner said about Gates, the Pro Bowl tight end. And L.T.? "Yeah, I think he would," the coach said. "Both of them are a lot better than they have been," Turner said. "It really will be a Saturday decision, how they feel. We'll get them out there and run around and see how they feel. I'm optimistic about both of them."
Analysis: Gates will be playing hurt for the second consecutive offseason. In fact, it's clear that he's been playing hurt for the better part of the last 12 months. That's part of the reason why his production slipped this season as he ended up with 60 catches for 704 yards and eight touchdowns, his lowest number of catches and yards since his rookie season. Still, Gates remains a No. 1 Fantasy TE in all scoring formats both in playoff leagues and in 2009 formats.
News: Chargers head coach Norv Turner said that Pro Bowl tight end Antonio Gates sprained an ankle Sunday night vs. Denver but should be OK for the club's Wild Card Game against the Colts on Saturday. Gates sat out of Wednesday's practice and is listed as questionable for the game.
Analysis: Gates will be playing hurt for the second consecutive offseason. In fact, it's clear that he's been playing hurt for the better part of the last 12 months. That's part of the reason why his production slipped this season as he ended up with 60 catches for 704 yards and eight touchdowns, his lowest number of catches and yards since his rookie season. Still, Gates remains a No. 1 Fantasy TE in all scoring formats both in playoff leagues and in 2009 formats.
News: San Diego TE Antonio Gates had three catches for 49 yards Sunday against Denver in the season finale but didn't finish the game due to an ankle injury. He is expected to be fine for the first round of the playoffs against Indianapolis since the Chargers clinched the AFC West title by beating the Broncos. Coach Norv Turner said Gates could have returned, but the team wanted to be conservative with him.
Analysis: Keep an eye on Gates' status against the Colts but expect him to play. Gates finished the 2008 regular season with 60 catches for 704 yards and eight touchdowns, which is his lowest number of catches and yards since his rookie season in 2003. Still, Gates remains a No. 1 Fantasy TE in all scoring formats.
News: San Diego TE Antonio Gates had four catches for 43 yards and two touchdowns in Week 16 at Tampa Bay. Gates now has 11 catches for 121 yards and two touchdowns in his past two games after going without a catch in Week 14 against Oakland.
Analysis: Look for Gates to stay hot in Week 17 against Denver. He had four catches for 61 yards in Week 2 at Denver and should play well against the Broncos again to close the season.
News: In the Chargers' 22-21 win at the Chiefs in Week 15, TE Antonio Gates rebounded from a zero-catch game the week before and had 78 yards on seven receptions. He did not score for the fifth straight game -- the first time he's had such a streak since 2003, his rookie year.
Analysis: Normally Gates comes through with a solid stat line every few weeks, and that makes him a usable Fantasy TE. He still is, but he's got a tough matchup in Week 16 at Tampa Bay. Consider him No. 1 material, though expectations must be in check.
News: San Diego TE Antonio Gates, who went without a catch in Week 14 against Oakland on Thursday night, will look to rebound in Week 15 at Kansas City. Earlier this year, Gates had eight catches for 66 yards and a touchdown against the Chiefs. Since that game, Gates has played four games and has only eight catches for 65 yards and no touchdowns.
Analysis: Gates has struggled recently, and QB Philip Rivers has struggled to get him the ball. Look for Gates to get a few more targets this week, but he has hurt Fantasy owners coming into the playoffs. Consider Gates a low-end No. 1 Fantasy option and hope he gets back on track this week.
News: San Diego dominated the Raiders on Thursday night of Week 14 but TE Antonio Gates went without a catch. Gates was fine for the game and was targeted a few times but Philip Rivers, who threw three TD passes, could not complete one with him.
Analysis: Gates hasn't had a solid Fantasy performance in four straight weeks for the Chargers. He's got six touchdowns on the year but the last one came against the Chiefs back on Nov. 9. He caught eight passes for 66 yards in that one and the Chargers play at Kansas City in Week 15. Their porous pass defense tells us that Gates is a must-start option next week. He should be able to break out against the Chiefs.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates, who has gone three-straight games with less than 30 yards receiving, faces Oakland in Week 14. Gates had five catches for 58 yards and a touchdown in Week 4 against the Raiders, which was his first touchdown against Oakland in his previous three games.
Analysis: Gates remains a No. 1 Fantasy option, but he's not a lock as a must-start this week based on his recent play and history against Oakland. Still start him, but lower your expectations this week.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates caught three passes for 27 yards Week 13 against the Falcons, marking the third straight game in which he had less than 30 yards receiving.
Analysis: The Chargers' passing game as a whole has struggled over two of those three weeks, so you can't really blame Gates himself. He still plays a more significant role on offense than most teams' tight ends, so keep him active in Fantasy for Week 14 against the Raiders.
News: San Diego TE Antonio Gates had three catches for 28 yards Sunday against the Colts. Gates now has just five catches for 38 yards in his past two games.
Analysis: Gates was outplayed by Brandon Manumaleuna, who had three catches for 29 yards against the Colts. Still, you have to start Gates every week for his potential. Hopefully he will bounce back in Week 13 against Atlanta.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates caught two passes for 10 yards in Week 11 at Pittsburgh. He was targeted four times in the game.
Analysis: Gates was coming off a game with eight catches. He was not the only Chargers receiver to suffer in this game. In fact, they all did. The Steelers tough defense held QB Philip Rivers to 159 yards passing and no receiver had more than three catches for 40 yards. In Week 12, the Chargers play against a Colts defense that is bad against the run and good against the pass. Consider him a safe play as a tight end, but you may want to consider other options if you rely on him as a receiver.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates caught a team-high eight passes for 66 yards in Week 10 against Kansas City, including a 8-yard touchdown pass in the fourth quarter.
Analysis: Gates was thrown to a team-high nine times in the game and he remains the team's go-to receiver despite being a tight end. Gates as a touchdown in three of his last four games and remains a must-start Fantasy tight end. He can even be used as a No. 2 receiver where applicable for Week 11 at Pittsburgh.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates topped his previous season high by 35 with 96 yards Week 8 against the Saints in England. He caught six passes -- one for a 12-yard touchdown. The score was his fifth of the season.
Analysis: Injuries have slowed Gates a bit, and so has the emergence of some of the team's wide receivers. He remains one of the few tight ends in the league that plays an integral role on offense, though, and a must-start in Fantasy. The Chargers have a bye in Week 9 before hosting the Chiefs in Week 10.
News: In his 23-14 loss at Buffalo in Week 14, San Diego TE Antonio Gates had just 55 yards on four catches. Gates has yet to get more than 61 receiving yards in a game this season.
Analysis: It's no rest for him as he and the Chargers fly to London to prepare for their Week 8 game vs. the Saints. Gates may not be delivering the yardage, but he is always a candidate to score, and Fantasy owners cannot ignore that. Continue to start him as a No. 1 TE, particularly with this upcoming matchup against the Saints' suspect secondary.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates will face the Buffalo Bills on the road in Week 7. He scored his fourth touchdown of the season and third in four games Week 6 against the Patriots. The Bills currently rank eighth against the pass with 184.8 yards allowed per game. They've also allowed just four touchdowns through the air in five games.
Analysis: Gates, slowed by toe and hip injuries for much of the season, hasn't done much yardage-wise this year, going for no more than 61 yards in any one game. He remains one of the few viable tight ends in Fantasy, though, so keep him active for Week 7 at Buffalo.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates scored his fourth touchdown of the season and third in four games Week 6 against the Patriots. The score came on a one-yard pass from Philip Rivers in the third quarter. Gates finished with four catches for 35 yards.
Analysis: Gates, slowed by toe and hip injuries for much of the season, hasn't done much yardage-wise this year, going for no more than 61 yards in any one game. He remains one of the few viable tight ends in Fantasy, though, so keep him active for Week 7 at Buffalo.
News:Antonio Gates has 13 catches for 138 yards and a score in two games in which he was healthy against Week 6 opponent New England (he was playing hurt in last year's playoff loss and ended the game with 17 yards on two catches). New England has allowed one touchdown to a tight end this year -- Anthony Fasano caught a Ronnie Brown pass.
Analysis: Gates caught just one pass for 12 yards in a Week 5 loss to the Dolphins, so he'll be looking to bounce back in a big way for this high-profile matchup. Philip Rivers has not had very good numbers against the Patriots, but Gates should be able to catch some passes up the middle of the field. Continue to view him as a must-start Fantasy TE.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates caught just one pass for 12 yards in a Week 5 loss to the Dolphins.
Analysis: Gates couldn't find many holes in the up-and-coming Miami defense on Sunday and his stats suffered as a result. Still, he remains a solid No. 1 Fantasy TE heading into Week 6 vs. New England.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (hip) is listed as probable for Week 5 at Miami. Gates has practiced in full the last two days after sitting out Wednesday. Gates has been bothered by hip and toe injuries all season, but has yet to miss a game.
Analysis: Gates has a touchdown in three of four games this season and is not letting injury keep him out of the end zone. He is still producing at a Pro Bowl level and remains a must-start Fantasy option heading into Week 5 against the Dolphins. Miami has allowed six passing touchdowns in 2008.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (hip) did not practice Wednesday, but returned to a full routine Thursday as the team prepares for Week 5 at Miami. Gates has been bothered by hip and toe injuries all season, but has yet to miss a game.
Analysis: Gates has a touchdown in three of four games this season and is not letting injury keep him out of the end zone. He is still producing at a Pro Bowl level and remains a must-start Fantasy option heading into Week 5 against the Dolphins. Miami has allowed six passing touchdowns in 2008.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (hip) did not practice Wednesday as the team prepares for Week 5 at Miami. Gates has been bothered by hip and toe injuries all season, but has yet to miss a game.
Analysis: Gates has a touchdown in three of four games this season and is not letting injury keep him out of the end zone. He is still producing at a Pro Bowl level and remains a must-start Fantasy option heading into Week 5 against the Dolphins. Miami has allowed six passing touchdowns in 2008.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates' 9-yard touchdown reception early in the fourth helped spark a 25-point quarter from San Diego in a 28-18 comeback win Week 4 against the Raiders. Gates finished with a team-high five catches for 58 yards, with his longest reception going 20 yards. Gates was targeted seven times in the game.
Analysis: Gates continues to pop up on the injury report due to lingering hip and toe injuries, but he has played in every game this season and has a touchdown in three of four. He is still producing at a Pro Bowl level and remains a must-start Fantasy option heading into Week 5 against the Dolphins. Miami has allowed six passing touchdowns in 2008.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (hip) is active and expected to start Week 4 at Oakland. Gates was probable on the injury report and went through full practices Thursday and Friday after sitting out Wednesday.
Analysis: Gates continues to be a great red zone target for QB Philip Rivers and remains a must-start Fantasy TE heading into Week 4 against the Raiders. Gates had nine catches for 120 yards in two games against Oakland last season. The Raiders rank 26th in pass defense through three weeks, allowing 232.3 yards per game and four touchdowns.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (hip) is listed as probable for Week 4 at Oakland. Gates went through full practices Thursday and Friday after sitting out Wednesday. Gates has been battling a toe and hip injury all season, but has yet to miss a game. He has two touchdowns on the season with his second coming Week 3 against the Jets.
Analysis: Gates continues to be a great red zone target for QB Philip Rivers and remains a must-start Fantasy TE heading into Week 4 against the Raiders. Gates had nine catches for 120 yards in two games against Oakland last season. The Raiders rank 26th in pass defense through three weeks, allowing 232.3 yards per game and four touchdowns.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (hip) did not practice Wednesday, but returned to a full routine Thursday as the team prepares for Week 4 at Oakland. Gates has been battling a toe and hip injury all season, but has yet to miss a game. He has two touchdowns on the season with his second coming Week 3 against the Jets.
Analysis: Gates continues to be a great red zone target for QB Philip Rivers and remains a must-start Fantasy TE heading into Week 4 against the Raiders. He is expected to play, but if he suffers a setback, we will let you know. Gates had nine catches for 120 yards in two games against Oakland last season. The Raiders rank 26th in pass defense through three weeks, allowing 232.3 yards per game and four touchdowns.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates will face the Oakland Raiders in Week 4. The Raiders rank 26th in pass defense through three weeks, allowing 232.3 yards per game and four touchdowns. Chambers faced the Raiders twice last season, totaling nine catches for 120 yards.
Analysis: Gates (hip) did not practice Wednesday as the team prepares for Week 4 at Oakland. Gates has been battling a toe and hip injury all season, but has yet to miss a game. He has two touchdowns on the season with his second coming Week 3 against the Jets. He continues to be a great red zone target for QB Philip Rivers and remains a must-start Fantasy TE heading into Week 4 against the Raiders. He is expected to play, but if he suffers a setback, we will let you know.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (hip) did not practice Wednesday as the team prepares for Week 4 at Oakland. Gates has been battling a toe and hip injury all season, but has yet to miss a game. He has two touchdowns on the season with his second coming Week 3 against the Jets.
Analysis: Gates continues to be a great red zone target for QB Philip Rivers and remains a must-start Fantasy TE heading into Week 4 against the Raiders. He is expected to play, but if he suffers a setback, we will let you know. Gates had nine catches for 120 yards in two games against Oakland last season.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates caught his second touchdown pass of the 2008 season when QB Philip Rivers hit him with a 6-yard strike in the second quarter of Week 3's win against the Jets. Gates, who had four catches for 61 yards in each of his first two games, finished with two catches for 25 yards Week 3.
Analysis: Gates came into the season battling hip and toe injuries, but he has been able to dress for the first three games and is no longer being listed on the injury report. Gates continues to be a great red zone target for Rivers and remains a must-start Fantasy TE heading into Week 4 against the Raiders. Gates had nine catches for 120 yards in two games against Oakland last season.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates had four catches for 61 yards Sunday at Denver. Gates was dealing with a hip injury coming into the game, but he managed to start and play well.
Analysis: Gates is a No. 1 TE in all leagues and should be started in all formats in Week 3 against the Jets.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (hip) is active and starting Week 2 at Denver. Gates, who was listed as probable, went through a full practice Friday after limited reps Wednesday and Thursday.
Analysis: In his last meeting with the Broncos in Denver, Gates posted seven receptions for 113 yards (12.3 avg.) and a touchdown. He is playing through a hip and foot ailment, but Gates is still a solid play in Fantasy.
News: The San Diego Union-Tribune reports Chargers TE Antonio Gates is adjusting his game due to his various ailments. Gates is still hurt with a healing big toe and a bruised hip limiting him in last week's season opener and in both practices this week, he has begun to see the blessing in his pain, even as the painful scar tissue and limitations he is experiencing frustrate him. "Mentally, I have to know what (the defenders) are doing," Gates said. "Before, it didn't matter what they were doing. I felt like if a linebacker was on me, I could still run at a speed and a rate that I could still make a play. It was due time for me to grow mentally. I think had I never experienced this, the physical part of it was going to always be like . . . that guy you see who can run and catch and never truly wants to learn the game because he plays at a high level just off his physical ability. I take a different perspective now."
Analysis: Gates, who is listed as probable after a full practice Friday, should do well this week against the Broncos. In his last meeting with the Broncos in Denver, Gates posted seven receptions for 113 yards (12.3 avg.) and a touchdown. Gates is all banged up right now, but he's a good enough athlete to be a factor even if he is less than 100 percent. Keep him active in all formats as long as he's taking the field.
News: In his last meeting with the Broncos in Denver, Chargers TE Antonio Gates posted seven receptions for 113 yards (12.3 avg.) and a touchdown. San Diego plays at Denver in Week 2.
Analysis: Gates is all banged up right now, but he's a good enough athlete to be a factor even if he is less than 100 percent. Keep him active in all formats as long as he's taking the field.
News: The San Diego Union-Tribune reports that Chargers TE Antonio Gates will play in Week 2 at Denver, despite the fact he's nursing toe and hip injuries. "I don't plan on being 100 percent," Gates said. "The toe has progressed. The more I run on it, the better it becomes. The hip is sore, but that's how you feel after a game."
Analysis: Gates seems to have been injured forever, but he remains a productive No. 1 Fantasy TE, despite his problems. Gates had eight catches for 137 yards and one touchdown in two games vs. Denver last season.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates, who came into the game as probable with a toe injury, survived a bruised hip to score a touchdown Week 1 against the Panthers. Gates bruised his hip in the second quarter and was taken to the locker room for treatment. He returned in time for the final play of the first half, when Philip Rivers took a knee at the 20. Rivers then found Gates for a 24-yard score in the third quarter. The All-Pro TE finished with four catches for 61 yards, but he also coughed up a fumble that was returned 35 yards for a score.
Analysis: There was some concern about Gates' injured toe and not being 100 percent as the season opened, but he continues to play through pain and produce. He was targeted six times Sunday and will remain a key cog in the Chargers offense. He remains a No. 1 Fantasy TE heading into Week 2 against the Broncos. Gates had eight catches for 137 yards and one touchdown in two games vs. Denver last season.
News: Chargers Pro Bowl tight end Antonio Gates bruised his hip in the second quarter of Sunday's game against the Carolina Panthers and was taken to the locker room for treatment. He returned in time for the final play of the first half, when Philip Rivers took a knee at the 20.
Analysis: Gates was hurt when he was tackled after catching a 16-yard pass from Philip Rivers. He spent the offseason rehabbing surgery on his left big toe, which he hurt in a playoff win against the Tennessee Titans. Carolina led 9-7 at halftime. It's definitely a bad sign to see Gates banged up this early in the season, but as long as he is on the field, he remains a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (toe) is active and starting Week 1 vs. Carolina. He went through full practices all week and was listed as probable on the injury report.
Analysis: Gates is not yet at 100 percent, but he is still good enough to dress for the Chargers. He missed the entire preseason schedule and it will be interesting to see if there is any rust Week 1. Still, he is too good to bench in Fantasy formats as long as he is active.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (toe) is listed as probable for Week 1 vs. Carolina. He has practiced in full all week after missing the entire preseason schedule.
Analysis: Gates said his toe not 100 percent, "but I'm definitely better than what I was," Gates said. "The more I get out there, the more reps I get, the more I get used to it. That's all I can really do at this point, is just go out and play as hard as I can and let everything else take care of itself." There's no denying that when he's healthy, Gates is a stat machine. It appears as though he will be active Week 1, so start him in Fantasy leagues despite not being 100 percent.
News: Chargers QB Philip Rivers, who's bounced back from offseason knee surgery, is looking forward to having both LaDainian Tomlinson and tight end Antonio Gates back in the lineup Week 1 against the Panthers. Gates injured his left big toe during a playoff win against Tennessee and later had surgery to repair a tear in the plantar plate. Gates, who did not play in the preseason, said he knew in July that he'd be able to play in the season opener.
Analysis: Gates is not 100 percent, "but I'm definitely better than what I was," Gates said. "The more I get out there, the more reps I get, the more I get used to it. That's all I can really do at this point, is just go out and play as hard as I can and let everything else take care of itself." There's no denying that when he's healthy, Gates is a stat machine. His position is thin, which is why people tend to reach for Gates in drafts. It appears as though he will be active Week 1, so start him in Fantasy leagues despite not being 100 percent.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates continued to rest his ailing toe and did not play in the preseason finale Friday against the 49ers. He missed the entire preseason schedule, but remains on track for the start of the regular season, albeit not at 100 percent.
Analysis: There's no denying that when he's healthy, Gates is a stat machine. His position is thin, which is why people tend to reach for Gates in drafts. Consider him a top-three Fantasy TE worth a pick starting in Round 5, and not before.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates continued to rest his ailing toe and did not play in the team's third preseason game vs. the Seahawks on Monday. He's not expected to suit up at all this preseason, but remains on track for the start of the regular season, albeit not at 100 percent.
Analysis: There's no denying that when he's healthy, Gates is a stat machine. His position is thin, which is why people tend to reach for Gates in drafts. Consider him a top-three Fantasy TE worth a pick starting in Round 5, and not before.
News:Chargers Pro Bowl tight end Antonio Gates didn't practice Wednesday, one day after passing a physical and being taken off the physically unable to perform list. Gates had surgery six months ago to repair a tear in the plantar plate of his left foot. "Obviously, this injury is one of those things you have to kind of handle daily," Gates said. "I continue to monitor it because ideally I want to be at full strength come the opener."
Analysis: Fantasy owners just want Gates to be healthy when the season begins. Whatever he wants to do to make that happen is fine with us. It appears Gates is getting closer to 100 percent after saying when training camp started he was 65 to 70 percent. As long as Gates is ready for the opener, that's good news. Continue to draft Gates as a No. 1 TE in all leagues worth a pick around Round 4.
News:Chargers tight end Antonio Gates was taken off the physically unable to perform list on Tuesday and participated in parts of practice after passing a physical. Gates had surgery nearly six months ago to repair a tear in the plantar plate of his left foot. He injured his left big toe during a playoff game against Tennessee last January. He was placed on the PUP list in late July. "Today was a pretty good day. I really pushed it. I gave it my all to see what I could do," said Gates, a Pro Bowl selection each of the past four seasons. He said his prospects look good for playing in the regular-season opener against the Carolina Panthers on Sept. 7, but only if he doesn't have any setbacks with his foot. "I hate to look so far down the road because this is a tricky situation," Gates said. "It's one of those things where it feels really good one day and you come back another day and it's sore. It's one of those injuries where you have to really monitor and make sure I'm not overdoing it."
Analysis: It appears Gates is getting closer to 100 percent after saying when training camp started he was 65 to 70 percent. As long as Gates is ready for the opener, that's good news. Continue to draft Gates as a No. 1 TE in all leagues worth a pick around Round 4.
News:Chargers coach Norv Turner is encouraged by TE Antonio Gates' progress from his offseason foot surgery as he continues to work on the side during practice, reports the North County Times. "Every time he goes out he says he feels better, he feels less pain and recovers faster," Turner said. "He is still on target to play when the season starts."
Analysis: It appears Gates is getting closer to 100 percent after saying when training camp started he was 65 to 70 percent. As long as Gates is ready for the opener, that's good news. Continue to draft Gates as a No. 1 TE in all leagues worth a pick around Round 4.
News:Chargers TE Antonio Gates continues to rehabilitate the big toe he injured during last season's playoffs, reports the North County Times. He knows he needs to be pulled off the PUP list before Aug. 30 to avoid missing the first six games of the regular season. Gates needs to pass a physical to be pulled from the PUP list. He made it clear that he has no intention of still being on the list when the Chargers open the regular season against Carolina on Sept. 7. "I refuse to be on that thing, man," Gates said. "I wouldn't imagine they would put me on it, based on the running I've been doing and the cutting I've been doing. I can feel some changes, but whether or not I can do it to the ability I need to (is the question). It looks OK, but the way it feels is the problem."
Analysis: Gates will take his time in his return, but he appears hopeful to be ready for the start of the season. Still draft Gates as a No. 1 TE, worth a pick somewhere around Round 4 in all leagues.
News: The San Diego Union-Tribune reports Chargers TE Antonio Gates said he will "definitely be ready for the opener." But Gates won't just come back to be back. "This team is too talented and too dedicated to winning for me to come back and not be ready to contribute," said Gates, who had surgery on his left big toe in late February. "I wouldn't shortchange this team. Being out there and playing is one thing, but contributing is another." Gates has been running and cutting up to twice a day on a side field but has yet to practice. He also is currently on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list.
Analysis: Gates will take his time in his return, but he appears hopeful to be ready for the start of the season. Still draft Gates as a No. 1 TE, worth a pick somewhere around Round 4 in all leagues.
News: San Diego TE Antonio Gates was placed on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list on Friday. Gates remains on the team’s 80-man roster, however he is ineligible to participate in practice until he passes his physical. Gates can remain on the "Active-PUP" list until the final roster cutdown date on Aug. 30. Gates is recovering from a toe injury.
Analysis: Gates has already said his toe is close to being healed, so he shouldn't take much longer to pass his physical and be activated. Barring any setbacks, Gates remains an elite tight end in all Fantasy leagues. Consider him a No. 1 TE option worthy of about a fourth-round pick, but continue to monitor how well he is recovering.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates tested his surgically repaired left big toe Monday at training camp and said it's about 65 to 70 percent healed. While rookies and select veterans opened camp, Gates went through a 45-minute workout on a side field. He tested the toe by running and cutting. Gates was hurt in a wild-card playoff win against Tennessee and then played against Indianapolis and New England despite being in obvious pain. He underwent surgery in late-February to repair what he said was a tear in the plantar plate. "Obviously, it's a process," Gates said. "I'm a lot better than I felt a month ago. I can say that. I have no determinant on when and how fast I'll be coming back. But right now, I feel good. It's a little sore, but it's tolerable." Gates said it was too early to know whether he'll be ready for the season opener against the Panthers on Sept. 7. Monday was the third time Gates tested the foot by running, and saw progress when comparing the session to the other two workouts. "The first time I went out there, I wasn't able to finish the workout," Gates said. "The second time, I finished it, but I was really, really sore. Now it's to the point where I can finish the workout and the next day it will be a little bit sore. As it continues to go on and the progress continues, hopefully I can just get through a workout and feel really good the next day."
Analysis: Gates caught 75 passes for 984 yards and nine touchdowns last regular season. He remains an elite tight end in every Fantasy league, and hopefully he will be ready by the season opener. Consider Gates a No. 1 option, worth a draft pick around Round 4 in all leagues, but continue to monitor his progress.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates, who missed the team's recent three-day minicamp, knows there's a process involved as he rehabs the left big toe he dislocated in January's playoff victory over Tennessee. After he underwent surgery in late February, the recovery period was projected to last between four to six months. Gates plans to start running later this month. He's aware that it's unlikely he'll be ready for the start of training camp in late July. But he hopes to be healthy by the time the Chargers open the regular season against Carolina on Sept. 7.
Analysis: It's not a good sign that Gates still is bothered with his toe injury, especially since it could linger into the start of the season. He should still be viewed as a No. 1 tight end in all Fantasy leagues, but he might slip from his top perch. Still plan on drafting Gates somewhere around Round 4 or 5, but he might let you down this season if the toe is still a problem. Also keep in mind QB Philip Rivers is coming off knee surgery, which could limit his and Gates' effectiveness.
News: Pro Bowl TE Antonio Gates had surgery this week on his dislocated left big toe and is expected to have a rehab of four to six months. Gates was hurt in a wild-card playoff win over Tennessee and was limited in San Diego's win over Indianapolis and the AFC championship game loss to New England.
Analysis: When healthy, there's no question that Gates is a monster tight end. But the toe injury, small as it may seem, is significant because it will keep him from being ready to play at 100 percent in 2008. There's also the issue of Gates' QB, Philip Rivers, not being ready for 2008. Still, Gates' upside is too high to take him out of the top three among Fantasy tight ends.
News: Chargers Pro Bowl TE Antonio Gates is leaning toward having surgery to repair the dislocated left big toe that slowed him during the playoffs. According to various reports out of Indianapolis, site of the NFL Scouting Combine, Gates said he'll decide by Wednesday whether to have surgery. Gates was at the combine to meet with medical specialists. "There's a higher chance I'm going to have surgery," Gates told reporters in Indianapolis. Gates was hurt in a wild-card playoff win over Tennessee and was limited in San Diego's win over Indianapolis and the AFC championship game loss to New England. The San Diego Union-Tribune says Gates has a torn plantar plate, and surgery would likely not cost him any time in the regular season, but would limit his training camp availability. Gates acknowledged the rehab could last into the season.
Analysis: When healthy, there's no question that Gates is a monster tight end. But the toe injury, small as it may seem, is significant because it will keep him from being ready to play at 100 percent in 2008. There's also the issue of Gates' QB, Philip Rivers, not being ready for 2008. Still, Gates' upside is too high to take him out of the top three among Fantasy tight ends. Jason Witten is a safer pick, though, and he'll be right alongside Kellen Winslow as the second-best (and second-safest) TE to take off the board in your draft this summer. Assume him to be a selection between Rounds 5 and 6, though if he demonstrates that he's healthy before your draft, he'll be bumped up a round and be back in play as the No. 1 TE in Fantasy Football.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates struggled toward the end of the 2007 season and the playoffs with a dislocated toe injury. Gates, who had another Pro Bowl year with 75 catches for 984 yards and nine touchdowns, didn't represent the AFC in Hawaii because of the injury. He is expected to be fine for the start of training camp.
Analysis: Gates should be 100 percent by the time the season starts, but the injury is worth keeping an eye on. When healthy, Gates is among the best tight ends in the NFL, and possibly the best. He will have some challengers to the throne (Cleveland's Kellen Winslow and Dallas' Jason Witten) but don't worry about taking Gates as the No. 1 guy at his position. One detriment to Gates is Philip Rivers (knee) isn't 100 percent, but Gates should still be solid in 2008.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (toe) missed practice all week, including Friday, as the team prepares for the AFC Championship Game at New England. The team listed him as doubtful on their Friday injury report. They listed him as doubtful at Indianapolis a week earlier, but he still played, albeit was not very effective.
Analysis: If he plays, Gates would be a solid Fantasy TE in postseason formats, but at this point he is a game-time decision at best. Brandon Manumaleuna would be the desperation spot starter in those same playoff leagues.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (toe) missed a second straight practice Thursday as the team prepares for the AFC Championship at New England. Gates did not practice leading up to the Divisional Playoff game at Indianapolis, but took the field and played the entire game.
Analysis: Gates surprised many people when he took the field against the Colts. He caught only two catches for 28 yards, but his presence was felt. Gates will likely face the Patriots and remains a solid Fantasy TE in postseason formats, but stay tuned because he might be another game-time decision. Gates had another outstanding season. He caught 75 passes for 984 yards and nine touchdowns. He will be a top Fantasy TE once again in 2008.
News: The Chargers had a handful for starters sitting out practice Wednesday that included LaDainian Tomlinson (left knee), tight end Antonio Gates (left toe) and nose tackle Jamal Williams (ankle). Outside linebacker Shawne Merriman was limited due to an illness. "They've spent a lot of hours in the training room," coach Norv Turner said as the team prepares for the AFC Championship game at New England. "They're all working on getting healthy. I think we're making progress. I think in most cases they'll be Sunday decisions."
Analysis: Gates surprised many people when he took the field against the Colts during the Divisional Playoffs. He caught only two catches for 28 yards, but his presence was felt. Gates will likely face the Patriots and remains a solid Fantasy TE in postseason formats. Stay tuned just in case he suffers a setback. Gates had another outstanding season. He caught 75 passes for 984 yards and nine touchdowns. He will be a top Fantasy TE once again in 2008.
News: Chargers coach Norv Turner said Monday that TE Antonio Gates' toe is "no worse than it was last week. I would think it would be late in the week or Sunday, go out and warm up again and see how he feels."
Analysis: Gates was a gametime decision last weekend and listed as doubtful, but still started and made a pair of catches. He reportedly left the RCA Dome in a walking boot and was said to receive an examination on his foot and toe. He shouldn't be expected to be very productive as he's playing hurt. Still, he's better than nothing if you need to start a tight end in Fantasy Playoff leagues.
News: The San Diego Union-Tribune reports that Chargers TE Antonio Gates left the RCA Dome in a walking boot after helping the team beat the Colts in their Divisional Playoff game. Gates will see a specialist on Monday as he's concerned that his toe and foot are getting worse as he plays on them.
Analysis: Gates made two catches for 28 yards at Indy. He shouldn't be expected to be very productive as he's playing hurt. Still, he's better than nothing if you need to start a tight end in Fantasy Playoff leagues.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates played in pain Sunday when he made two catches for 28 yards in San Diego's Divisional Playoff win over the Colts, despite nursing a dislocated toe.
Analysis: Gates wasn't expected to play Sunday with his toe injury, but he dressed and made a couple of nice catches in the Chargers' unexpected victory. He will get a week to rest up before taking on the Patriots in the AFC Championship game on Sunday afternoon.
News: The Chargers officially listed TE Antonio Gates as doubtful for their Divisional Playoff game at Indianapolis on Sunday. Gates dislocated his left big toe late in the second quarter of Sunday's 17-6 Wild Card win against Tennessee and didn't return.
Analysis: Gates had another outstanding season. He caught 75 passes for 984 yards and nine touchdowns. Bench him in postseason formats since it's not likely he will play. He will be among the top Fantasy choices at tight end in 2008.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (toe) did not practice Wednesday or Thursday as the team prepares for a Divisional Playoff game at Indianapolis. Gates dislocated his left big toe late in the second quarter of Sunday's 17-6 Wild Card win against Tennessee and didn't return. With a few days left before San Diego plays, the Chargers and Gates remain optimistic about the All-Pro's chances of playing. "I’m still optimistic because he’s optimistic," head coach Norv Turner told NFL.com. "Antonio has been continuing to get treatment. I believe he’s improving. We’ll see where he is (Friday) but probably it would be a Sunday morning decision based on how he feels."
Analysis: Gates finally spoke with the media Thursday. "(My status) fluctuates from time to time," said Gates, who is wearing a protective boot. "It felt real good Tuesday. It didn’t feel as good (Thursday). It’s one of those injuries where it’s going to be a game-time decision. I really can’t say how it’s going to feel on Sunday because I still have Friday, I still have Saturday to treat it, to rest it, to get the swelling out." Gates had another outstanding season. He caught 75 passes for 984 yards and nine touchdowns. He is a must-start Fantasy TE in postseason formats, if healthy. He will be among the top Fantasy choices at tight end in 2008 as well.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (toe) did not practice Wednesday as the team prepares for a Divisional Playoff game at Indianapolis. Gates dislocated his left big toe late in the second quarter of Sunday's 17-6 Wild Card win against Tennessee and didn't return. He wasn't available to the media after practice. "We're getting Antonio ready to play," coach Norv Turner said. "He's making progress, he's going through all his treatments and all those things. We'll see where he's at later in the week. He's making good progress. I have hope that he'll be able to play."
Analysis: Gates has missed only two starts since becoming a regular midway through his rookie season in 2003. One was the regular-season finale in 2004, when he and other key players were rested before the playoffs. The other was in 2005, when general manager A.J. Smith suspended him for two exhibition games and the season opener for missing a team-imposed deadline to settle a contract impasse. Gates had another outstanding season. He caught 75 passes for 984 yards and nine touchdowns. He is a must-start Fantasy TE in postseason formats, if healthy. He will be among the top Fantasy choices at tight end in 2008 as well.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (toe) did not practice Wednesday as the team prepares for a Divisional Playoff game at Indianapolis and his status remains in jeopardy, according to the San Diego Union-Tribune. The team announced Tuesday that Gates has a partially dislocated toe. "I don't know how long it's going to be," General Manager A.J. Smith said. "Any time that a star player is away from you, obviously it hurts you."
Analysis: Gates injured his toe during a Wild Card win against the Titans. Gates appears doubtful for the Colts game, but anything can happen so stay tuned. Gates had another outstanding season. He caught 75 passes for 984 yards and nine touchdowns. He is a must-start Fantasy TE in postseason formats, if healthy. He will be among the top Fantasy choices at tight end in 2008 as well.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates had an MRI on Monday on his injured left big toe. Gates said on Sunday that the toe was dislocated, but the Chargers are saying it's sprained. Gates was taken off the field on a cart during the second quarter on Sunday. Turner said Gates is day to day.
Analysis: We'll know more about Gates' status as the week rolls along, but between his sore back and hurt toe, he's in need of an offseason full of rest. Figure him to be a good Fantasy TE option in Fantasy Playoff leagues, and still a top-three Fantasy TE in 2008 drafts.
News: The Chargers lost three-time All-Pro tight end Antonio Gates to a sprained left big toe late in the second quarter of their Wild Card game against the Titans on Sunday. The team calls him questionable for the Divisional Round at Indianapolis. He finished with two catches for 15 yards.
Analysis: Gates slowed his production down the stretch in 2007, but he still did enough to enter 2008 as the likely No. 1 TE in Fantasy again. Accordingly, he remains one of the more valuable tight ends in Fantasy playoff formats, so monitor his status leading up to next week's game at Indianapolis.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates ended a two-game mini slump by catching six passes for 62 yards as San Diego closed out their regular season with a 30-17 win over the Oakland Raiders. The Chargers will host a Wild Card playoff game on Sunday at 4:30 p.m. ET.
Analysis: Gates finished the regular season with 75 catches, which is four more than last season, but 14 behind his stellar 2006 total of 89. He matched last year's total of nine touchdowns, and will look to make an impact in the playoffs starting on Sunday. Gates will be a sexy TE pick on many Fantasy Playoff rosters this week.
News: San Diego TE Antonio Gates had one catch for 24 yards Monday against Denver. He is dealing with a bad back and has only two catches for 32 yards in his past two games.
Analysis: It might be a good idea to sit Gates in Week 17 at Oakland. He's not playing well right now with the back injury and likely won't plan much against the Raiders with the Chargers trying to get healthy for the playoffs.
News: Playing with a sore back, Chargers TE Antonio Gates caught one pass for 8 yards and didn't finish the game vs. Detroit in Week 15 because the Chargers ran away in a blowout.
Analysis: We will monitor Gates' injury throughout the week. Assuming he plays, he owns the Broncos -- San Diego's Week 16 opponent -- with two 100-yard games and three touchdowns in his last two. Gates will be worth a start in Fantasy play.
News: After partaking in limited practice Friday, the Chargers listed TE Antonio Gates as questionable for Week 15 vs. Detroit. The San Diego Union-Tribune speculates that Gates will make the game.
Analysis: For three quarters last week, Gates was in and out of action and had one catch. Not until late in the game did he step up and produce some numbers. With the Chargers expected to run early and often, Gates might be in line to be a disappointment. He's near impossible to bench, but if you happen to be in a situation where you have multiple top-flight Fantasy tight ends, you may want to start the other one over Gates. We'll have the official word on Gates an hour before kickoff on Sunday.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates was held out of practice with a back injury Thursday for the second straight session as the team prepares for Week 15 against the Lions. Gates has three touchdowns in his last three games and nine this season. He also has 67 catches and 890 yards. "Antonio's a lot better (Thursday) than he was (Wednesday) and I would hope he can do parts of practice (Friday)," head coach Norv Turner said. "He's getting a lot better. If he progresses the way he has over the last two days, then I think he'll be all right."
Analysis: Gates has 49 first downs in 2007 and continues to be the top pass-catching tight end in the NFL. The Chargers are not overly concerned with Gates' injury at this time and he is on track to play Week 15. If he suffers any setbacks, we will let you know. He is a must-start Fantasy option when healthy.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates was held out of practice with a back injury Thursday for the second straight session as the team prepares for Week 15 against the Lions. Gates has three touchdowns in his last three games and nine this season. He also has 67 catches and 890 yards. "Antonio's a lot better (Thursday) than he was (Wednesday) and I would hope he can do parts of practice (Friday)," head coach Norv Turner said. "He's getting a lot better. If he progresses the way he has over the last two days, then I think he'll be all right."
Analysis: Gates has 49 first downs in 2007 and continues to be the top pass-catching tight end in the NFL. The Chargers are not overly concerned with Gates' injury at this time and he is on track to play Week 15. If he suffers any setbacks, we will let you know. He is a must-start Fantasy option when healthy.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates was held out of practice with a back injury Wednesday as the team prepares for Week 15 against the Lions. Gates has three touchdowns in his last three games and nine this season. He also has 67 catches and 890 yards.
Analysis: Gates has 49 first downs in 2007 and continues to be the top pass-catching tight end in the NFL. The Chargers are not overly concerned with Gates' injury at this time and he is on track to play Week 15. If he suffers any setbacks, we will let you know. He is a must-start Fantasy option when healthy.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates was hampered by a back injury in the first half at Tennessee in Week 14, but finished with 57 yards on six catches with a touchdown. He has four touchdowns in his last four games.
Analysis: If healthy, Gates remains a must-start No. 1 Fantasy TE when the Bolts host the Lions in Week 15. Remember, Gates is from Detroit, which should motivate him against the Lions. As always, start him.
News: Fantasy owners of Antonio Gates had to be disappointed by his negative-one outing in Week 13, but at least they know he can't possibly do any worse against the Titans in Week 14. The Titans are solid on the defensive side of the ball, but we all know what Gates can do on any given week.
Analysis: Gates has been frustrating lately for his owners as he only has one game with over 54 yards receiving in his last five outings. Still, you can't afford to bench him with the TE talent pool being so shallow, so start him in Week 14 and hope he finds an early rhythm against the Titans.
News: San Diego TE Antonio Gates had one catch for minus-1 yard Sunday at Kansas City.
Analysis: Gates has a bad history against Kansas City, but no one expected this. He will definitely play better in Week 14 at Tennessee, so don't be afraid to start him.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates hasn't topped 80 yards in his last four games against the Chiefs and has been held without a touchdown in his last two contests between the two division rivals who meet for the second time this season in Week 13. In their Week 4 contest, Gates had six catches for 79 yards.
Analysis: Regardless of how Gates has done against the Chiefs in the past, you're not going to bench him in Week 13 unless you own another elite TE with a better matchup like, say Kellen Winslow or Jason Witten. The chances are, however, that you're not THAT blessed at the position, so go ahead and start Gates just like every week and hope he turns in another two-touchdown, 105-yard performance like he did in Week 12.
News:Philip Rivers quieted the boo-birds and rediscovered Antonio Gates, throwing two of his three touchdown passes to the All-Pro tight end and leading San Diego to a 32-14 win over the Baltimore Ravens in Week 12. Rivers found Gates wide open in zone coverage for a 35-yard touchdown pass midway through the second quarter. Gates caught a 25-yard touchdown pass early in the third quarter. He finished with six catches for 105 yards.
Analysis: Gates has re-emerged as everyone's favorite Fantasy tight end the last two weeks after falling into oblivion for a few weeks. He has three touchdowns in his last two games and has his first 100-yard game since Week 5 against the Broncos. He is a threat to score a touchdown every week and remains a must-start Fantasy option heading into Week 13 against the Chiefs.
News: In 2007, Chargers TE Antonio Gates is averaging 72.4 receiving yards-per-game at home. He will try to keep that nice total up in Week 12 when San Diego hosts the Baltimore Ravens.
Analysis: The Ravens have one of the best defenses in the league, but Gates isn't any ordinary TE. If Philip Rivers can finally get things going in Week 12, Gates has a good chance to get into the end zone for a second straight game. He is our second-best Fantasy TE option in Week 12.
News: San Diego TE Antonio Gates had four catches for 54 yards and a touchdown Sunday against Jacksonville.
Analysis: Gates remains an elite TE and should be considered a No. 1 option in all leagues in Week 12 against Baltimore.
News: The Chargers have listed TE Antonio Gates as probable for Week 11 against the Jaguars because of a team decision. He went through limited practice reps Friday, but there has been no discussion about a potential injury. Gates has only four catches for 36 yards in his last two games and will try to break out of his mini-slump in Week 11 at Jacksonville.
Analysis: Rushing yards are hard to come by against the Jaguars, so San Diego will likely have to go to the air if they want to score some points. Unfortunately for Gates owners, QB Philip Rivers has been downright awful lately. If he can find his rhythm and start finding his elite TE again, Gates should post No. 1 TE-type stats in Week 11.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates has only four catches for 36 yards in his last two games and will try to break out of his mini-slump in Week 11 at Jacksonville.
Analysis: Rushing yards are hard to come by against the Jaguars, so San Diego will likely have to go to the air if they want to score some points. Unfortunately for Gates owners, QB Philip Rivers has been downright awful lately. If he can find his rhythm and start finding his elite TE again, Gates should post No. 1 TE-type stats in Week 11 like he is capable of.
News: Coming of a one-catch, 10-yard performance Week 9 at Minnesota, Chargers TE Antonio Gates didn't fare much better Week 10 against the Colts. He caught three passes for 26 yards.
Analysis: With QB Philip Rivers struggling -- he threw for only 104 yards in Week 10 -- Gates hasn't had a chance to catch too many passes. But as well as Gates came out of the ... uh, gate ... you have to keep starting him. We imagine Rivers will right the ship at least enough to make Gates a No. 1 Fantasy TE in Week 11 at Jacksonville.
News: TE Antonio Gates averages 84.0 receiving yards-per-game at home (336 yards in 4 games) this season, but heads into Week 10's contest with the Colts coming off his worst outing of the season. The Colts haven't faced a TE of Gates' caliber yet this season.
Analysis: Gates might go up against another elite TE in Week 10 in the shape of Dallas Clark, who has a concussion, and will be looking to erase the memories of his Week 9 performance. He is a must-start in all formats, even against the league's third-ranked defense.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates caught only one pass for 10 yards in San Diego's 35-17 loss to the Vikings in Week 9. That is his worst outing since catching one ball for seven yards in Week 15 last season.
Analysis: Gates most certainly cost some folks a victory with his pathetic outing in Week 9. Philip River's struggles were most likely to blame for the debacle, but the Vikings defense has to be given some credit. Still, Gates is the consensus No. 1 TE in Fantasy play and remains a must-start in all leagues in Week 10 against the Colts.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates took two of his three catches in Week 8 to the house and has the potential to produce another monster Fantasy outing in Week 9 against the run-stuffing Vikings.
Analysis: Gates has been our No. 1 Fantasy TE all season, and for good reason. He is head and shoulders above everyone else at his position and teams just can't stop him. Expect him to at least reach double digits in Fantasy points again in Week 9, regardless of your scoring system.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates had only three catches Week 8 against the Texans, but they went for 92 yards, and two of them -- a 49-yarder and a 31-yarder -- also went for touchdowns. Gates also had one yard on a kick return.
Analysis: Gates now has five touchdowns and over 600 yards receiving on the season. He remains the consensus No. 1 TE in Fantasy and a must-start for Week 9 at Minnesota.
News: Antonio Gates is 75 yards away from being the third-fastest tight end in NFL history to reach 4,000 career receiving yards. He should be able to get that when he and the Chargers host the Texans in Week 8. The San Diego Union-Tribune also reports that Gates has caught 43 of 54 passes thrown his way, a 79.6 percent clip, second in the league among those with 40 grabs (Ronnie Brown caught 84.8 percent of the 46 passes thrown at him before he got hurt). "I don't know what the record is, but he must be on pace to break it," coach Norv Turner said.
Analysis: Gates is a must-start Fantasy TE. Expect some nice stats against the Texans in Week 8, even with him and the Chargers displaced earlier this week from the wildfire burning in San Diego.
News: The Chargers acquired WR Chris Chambers from the Dolphins in exchange for a second-round pick. Chambers will be just another playmaker on San Diego for opposing defenses to account for, making coverage on TE Antonio Gates and especially WR Vincent Jackson a little lighter. Chambers should see playing time in front of rookie Craig Davis and injured WR Eric Parker, who may be placed on Injured Reserve soon.
Analysis: Fantasywise, Gates is still the best tight end in the game, although his touchdown production could slip by one or two scores with Chambers sharing the field. As for Jackson, expect his receptions total to decline with Chambers coming aboard, but he should still be effective as a low-end No. 3 Fantasy receiver. Davis should only be owned in dynasty leagues while Parker and WRs Malcom Floyd and Kassim Osgood should be sent packing to the waiver wire in all leagues. The Chargers are off in Week 7 but host Houston in Week 8.
News: Antonio Gates managed just three receptions for a team-high 58 yards in Week 6 at Oakland. He was held out of the end zone for the third time in four weeks.
Analysis: This was the worst performance of the season by Gates, as his receptions and yardage totals were both season lows. Regardless, he remains a must-start heading into Week 8 against the Texans once the team returns from its bye.
News: For the second consecutive game against the Broncos, Antonio Gates topped 100 yards and scored. He had seven catches for 113 yards and a TD. Gates has three TDs in his last two against Denver.
Analysis: Gates continues to be a must-start Fantasy TE. Start him vs. Oakland in Week 6 with no reservations.
News: When the Broncos and Chargers have gotten together recently, it's been the LaDainian Tomlinson show for San Diego. Not until their final meeting last season has Gates posted a 100-yard game or even a touchdown against the Broncos. Before that late 2006 contest, Gates never topped even 90 yards on Denver and was held scoreless from his rookie year until that game.
Analysis: With the Broncos ranked first in pass defense and 31st in run defense, the Chargers should run Tomlinson silly, making Gates' potential production an issue. Still, he's too good of a player at a thin position Fantasywise to bench. If you've got Gates, start him unless you have Jason Witten or Dallas Clark. Gates is listed as probable on the Week 5 injury report with an illness. He did not practice Thursday, but didn't miss a rep Friday. He appears ready to play on Sunday.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates caught six passes for 79 yards -- both team highs -- during a Week 4 loss to the Chiefs. His longest reception went for 27 yards. Gates now has 75 or more yards in each game this season.
Analysis: Gates is clearly QB Philip Rivers' favorite target, netting six or more receptions in each game this season. He continues to produce wide receiver-type numbers from the tight end position and remains a must-start Fantasy option. The Chargers play the Broncos in Week 5.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates has 34 receptions for 408 yards and eight touchdowns in six career games against the Chiefs. In their first meeting of the 2005 season, Gates had a monster day, going 10-145 with three touchdowns.
Analysis: The Kansas City pass defense is off to a pretty good start this season, having allowed only 155.7 yards per game to rank fifth in the league. Still, Gates is nearly impossible to shut down completely and remains our No. 1 Fantasy TE in the NFL for Week 4.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates had 11 catches for 113 yards Sunday against Green Bay.
Analysis: Gates continues to be the No. 1 TE in Fantasy Football and he had another solid outing. Consider him a great start in Week 4 against Kansas City.
News: A long time ago, Antonio Gates was a rookie. Back when no one knew who he was, Gates notched his first 100-yard game against the Packers (117 yards in December, 2003). This week, he and the Chargers head to Green Bay to battle the Packers again. This time, Gates hopes to get his 10th 100-yard game, and second this season.
Analysis: The matchup at Green Bay isn't perfect for Gates, but only a guy loaded at wide receiver in a league that doesn't start tight ends would even consider sitting Gates. In most leagues, Gates is a must-start.
News: Antonio Gates (back) started in Week 2 at New England and he finished with seven receptions for 77 yards and a touchdown.
Analysis: Gates was not affected by the minor injury which landed him as probable on the injury report. He remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues for Week 3 at Green Bay.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (back) is listed as probable for Week 2 at New England. He went through full practice routines on Thursday and Friday.
Analysis: Gates totaled six receptions for 108 yards (18.0 avg.) his in last meeting against the Patriots. Look for him to post similar results in Week 2 action when he and the Chargers head to New England. Gates remains the No. 1 overall Fantasy TE. He should start in all leagues that use tight ends.
News: Chargers.com reports that TE Antonio Gates (back) practiced in full on Thursday and felt OK after working out. "I practiced full speed and pushed myself," Gates said. "It went well."
Analysis: Gates totaled six receptions for 108 yards (18.0 avg.) his in last meeting against the Patriots. Look for him to post similar results in Week 2 action when he and the Chargers head to New England. Gates remains the No. 1 overall Fantasy TE. He should start in all leagues that use tight ends.
News: Chargers All-Pro tight end Antonio Gates missed Wednesday's practice with a sore back but said he expects to return on Thursday. "It tightened up (Wednesday) and we just decided not to see any action today," Gates said. "I'll be back (Thursday)." tomorrow."
Analysis: Gates was busy in Sunday's 14-3 win over Chicago, with nine catches for 107 yards. Among them was a 17-yard touchdown pass from LaDainian Tomlinson. "I took a lot of hits, man," Gates said. "It's a concern because he didn't practice, but I think he's all right," coach Norv Turner said. "It'll be day-to-day. I'd assume he'll be able to do part of practice (Thursday)." The Chargers don't seem too concerned about Gates' injury at this time and neither should Fantasy owners. Keep him active in all Fantasy leagues for Week 2.
News: Antonio Gates totaled six receptions for 108 yards (18.0 avg.) his in last meeting against the Patriots. Look for him to post similar results in Week 2 action when he and the Chargers head to New England.
Analysis: Gates remains the No. 1 overall Fantasy TE. He should start in all leagues that use tight ends.
News: TE Antonio Gates caught nine passes for 107 yards and a touchdown vs. Chicago Week 1. His TD catch came from LaDainian Tomlinson.
Analysis: Gates continues to be the best Fantasy TE in the game today. Don't bench him despite the tough matchup when the Bolts play at New England in Week 2.
News: Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers and tight end Antonio Gates sat out in Thursday's preseason finale against the 49ers so that new coach Norv Turner, the 49ers' offensive coordinator last year, could look at other players. Reigning NFL MVP LaDainian Tomlinson didn't take a snap in the exhibition season to avoid the risk of injury.
Analysis: All three players remain must-starts heading in the regular season for Week 1 against the Bears. "I think these are probably two of the top teams in football teeing it off in the opener. It'll be exciting," Rivers said. "I think we're right where we need to be. We'll be fresh and ready when they roll in here."
News: Chargers coach Norv Turner decided Thursday that quarterback Philip Rivers and tight end Antonio Gates wouldn't play in that night's exhibition finale against the 49ers. Turner "wants to see more of others," team spokesman Bill Johnson said in an e-mail to the media.
Analysis: This was to be expected as many teams hold out their starters. Gates remains the best TE in Fantasy Football thanks to his hands, size, speed and offensive scheme. Head coach Norv Turner might make him even better, as he loves to utilize the tight end. Expect him to go off the board in late Round 3 in most leagues.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates caught four passes for 56 yards, including a 23-yard reception, during Saturday's preseason game against the Cardinals.
Analysis: Gates remains the best TE in Fantasy Football thanks to his hands, size, speed and offensive scheme. Head coach Norv Turner might make him even better, as he loves to utilize the tight end. Expect him to go off the board in late Round 3 in most leagues.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates had two receptions for 39 yards at St. Louis in preseason action, including a nice 28-yard grab down the left sideline on a broken-down play.
Analysis: Gates remains the best TE in Fantasy Football thanks to his hands, size, speed and offensive scheme. Head coach Norv Turner might make him even better, as he loves to utilize the tight end. Expect him to go off the board in late Round 3 in most leagues.
News: Gates played sparingly in Sunday's preseason game against the Seahawks, posting one reception for 18 yards in the loss.
Analysis: Gates had 71 catches for 924 yards and nine touchdowns last year. He remains the best TE in Fantasy Football. Head coach Norv Turner might make him even better, as he loves to utilize the tight end.
News: According to the San Diego Union-Tribune, the Chargers objective is for TE Antonio Gates to be more integral to the offense than he was last season. In his first season as a starter, QB Philip Rivers often found comfort in Gates the same way Drew Brees did. But Rivers and Gates did not hook up as often in 2006 as they might have. There were times where it appeared Gates was invisible. He finished the season with 71 receptions for 924 yards and nine touchdowns. Those were all team highs, but they were not as prolific as either of his previous two All-Pro seasons.
Analysis: Last season did nothing to diminish Gates' stature as one of the best pass-catching tight ends ever. No TE has ever come close to Gates' 32 touchdowns in a three-year span, and only three (the elder Kellen Winslow, Tony Gonzalez and Todd Christensen) have had more yards over three seasons than Gates' 2,989 since 2004. Gates and Gonzalez are the only tight ends to put together three straight 900-yard seasons. Gates is getting better, for sure. He is leaner, more muscular and about 253 pounds, down from his listed weight of 260. And under new coach Norv Turner, Gates is learning things he hadn't even fathomed before. He is running quicker routes and longer routes and routes that turn in ways he did not turn them before. He is the best TE in Fantasy football.
News: Can TE Antonio Gates actually get better? According to the San Diego Union-Tribune, Gates, like many of his teammates, wondered just how much better the Chargers' offense could get under new head coach Norv Turner. "That's what's amazing about it," Gates said. "Just when we felt we had gotten everything out of this system, it's like, 'Wow! We can do this? You're putting this in?'"
Analysis: Gates had 71 catches for 924 yards and nine touchdowns last year. He remains the best TE in Fantasy Football, so if he can improve, that would be tremendous. Hopefully, Turner can make that happen.
News: Antonio Gates had four receptions for 56 yards and a touchdown in Week 17 against the Cardinals.
Analysis: Gates remains a strong No. 1 Fantasy option in all leagues heading into Draft Day in 2007.
News: Gates had just one reception for seven yards in Week 15 against Kansas City.
Analysis: Gates hurt his Fantasy owners at the worst time of the season. If you advance on despite his poor performance, don't hesitate to use him in Week 16 at Seattle in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates had seven catches for 104 yards and two TDs vs. Denver in Week 14. His first TD was a jump ball caught over Champ Bailey and Darrent Williams, and his second was caught against John Lynch.
Analysis: Gates is a must-start vs. Kansas City in Week 15.
News: The Chargers added TE Antonio Gates (hamstring) to their injury report on Friday. He is probable to play vs. Denver in Week 14.
Analysis: Don't let this scare you out of starting Gates in Week 14. He should be considered a top-of-the-line Fantasy tight end in all leagues.
News: San Diego TE Antonio Gates had seven catches for 90 yards and a touchdown against Buffalo.
Analysis: Gates is one of the best TE in football and should be considered a No. 1 option for Week 14 against Denver.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates caught six passes for 81 yards and a touchdown in a Week 12 win over the Raiders. Gates 19-yard reception in the fourth quarter came via a halfback pass from teammate LaDainian Tomlinson.
Analysis: Gates is still a No. 1 Fantasy TE and should be starting for your team in Week 13 against the Bills.
News: San Diego QB Philip Rivers' first pass to TE Antonio Gates last night was a screen that lost a yard on the Chargers' first play of the second half. Gates' second reception almost resulted in his first touchdown in a while, when he caught a pass from Rivers and ran it to the 3. But Gates did not score, and now has gone four games without finding the end zone. That's his longest such stretch since his rookie season. Gates finished with a team-high five catches for 48 yards, all in the second half.
Analysis: Despite being one of the best tight ends in the NFL, Gates has struggled this year, and his lack of touchdowns is evidence of that. Maybe it's having a new QB in Rivers or the success of RB LaDainian Tomlinson. Regardless, consider Gates a No. 1 TE for Week 12 against Oakland.
News: Antonio Gates had just five catches for 48 yards and was held out of the endzoen in Sunday night's win in Denver. He has 44 catches and four TDs on the season.
Analysis: Gates remains one of the top tight ends in the game and is a must start in all formats. Keep him active for Week 12 when the Chargers host the Raiders.
News: In six career games against the Broncos, Chargers TE Antonio Gates has 16 catches, 174 yards and zero touchdowns. Two of the six games were in Gates' first season when he didn't record a stat, but he still has yet to score against Denver.
Analysis: This should only sway Fantasy owners of Gates if they have a very reliable backup Fantasy TE with a dream matchup in Week 11. Otherwise, start Gates because you didn't draft him to sit on your bench.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates caught five catches for 69 yards at Cincinnati in Week 10. He was about the only regular starter in the game who didn't have a monster outing.
Analysis: Gates is a must-start Fantasy tight end on a weekly basis despite his playing at Denver in Week 11.
News: Antonio Gates had two receptions for 22 yards in Week 9 against Cleveland. During the week, Cleveland's Kellen Winslow hyped his matchup with Chargers All-Pro tight end as a heavyweight match, then went on to say he was the best tight end in the NFL. Winslow had 78 yards on a career-high 11 catches, which tied for second-highest in franchise history.
Analysis: Despite the poor output against the Browns, Gates remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues for San Diego's next game at Cincinnati in Week 10.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates will be eager to show he is the best player on the field at his position -- never mind Cleveland's Kellen Winslow, Jr. Gates has a team-high 384 receiving yards and four receiving touchdowns.
Analysis: Gates is arguably the best TE in Fantasy football. He has a great matchup in Week 9 against the Browns and will show Winslow who the better man is.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates caught five passes for 66 yards vs. St. Louis in Week 8.
Analysis: Gates may have had an off game here, but he's a must-start vs. Cleveland in Week 9.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (hip) is listed as probable for Week 8 vs. St. Louis.
Analysis: This is the first time in 2006 that Gates has appeared on the injury report. He is coming off a great game where he had nine receptions, 63 yards and a touchdown against the Chiefs. He is probably just a little sore from the game, but keep an eye on the situation as the week progresses. Otherwise, Gates remains a must-start Fantasy TE. He plays vs. St. Louis in Week 8. Start him.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates caught nine passes for 63 yards and a touchdown at Kansas City in Week 7.
Analysis: Gates remains a must-start Fantasy TE. He plays vs. St. Louis in Week 8. Start him.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates caught five passes for 78 yards in Week 6 at San Francisco, including a 57-yard score in the first quarter.
Analysis: Gates and Phillip Rivers finally seem to be developing a rapport. Consider the elite TE a must-start in all leagues that require starting them in Week 7 at Kansas City.
News: Antonio Gates had three receptions for 55 yards and a touchdown in Week 5 against the Steelers.
Analysis: Perhaps opposing defenses have learned how to cover the burly tight end. When the Chargers face teams with quality linebackers, Gates' production could be limited. However, owners can't bench him since his potential is simply too great. He should be solid in Week 6 at San Francisco.
News: It's strange how little action All-Pro TE Antonio Gates is seeing. Not that he isn't in the game, but the ball doesn't seem to be heading his way as often as one might think. In three games, he has but 10 catches for 122 yards and one touchdown.
Analysis: Perhaps opposing defenses have learned how to cover the burly tight end. When the Chargers face teams with quality linebackers, Gates' production could be limited. However, owners can't bench him since his potential is simply too great. Use him despite the shaky matchup vs. Pittsburgh in Week 5.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates caught four passes for 41 yards at Baltimore in Week 4.
Analysis: Gates is a must-start every week since his potential to dominate from the TE position is high. Use him when he plays vs. Pittsburgh in Week 5.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates had four catches for 55 yards against the Titans.
Analysis: Despite not scoring, Gates is a must-start in all Fantasy leagues. The Chargers are on a bye next week.
News: Antonio Gates had two receptions for just 26 yards in Week 1 at Oakland on Monday, but he was able to reel in a 4-yard fourth quarter touchdown in the 27-0 road win.
Analysis: Despite the poor yardage totals in the opener, Gates remains a must-start in all Fantasy leagues for Week 2 against Tennessee.
News: Antonio Gates is a must-start each week, but Fantasy owners beware: Last season vs. Oakland, Gates had six catches for 68 yards with a touchdown in two games. Of course, in 2004 he dominated the Raiders for three TDs and over 160 yards.
Analysis: OK, there's no argument in the world for benching Gates ever. That's part of the reason why he's such a valuable Fantasy component. Definitely start him against the Raiders in Week 1.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates solidified himself as the best tight end in the NFL, catching 89 passes for 1,101 yards and 10 touchdowns in 15 games in 2005. He had four 100-yard games last season.
Analysis: There is no question that Gates is the best Fantasy tight end in the NFL today. He should be considered as a good pick starting in the fourth round in most drafts, although taking him in the late third wouldn't be so bad, either.
News: Antonio Gates caught just three passes for only 23 yards in Week 17 vs. Denver.
Analysis: Gates took a minor step back from his outstanding 2004 season, but he remained one of the top tight ends in Fantasy Football.
News: Antonio Gates caught four passes for 52 yards and a touchdown in Week 16 at Kansas City.
Analysis: Gates is an excellent option for Week 17 at Denver.
News: We've learned that it's raining very hard in Kansas City and the winds are picking up as well. This will mean a ball control type of game, not the high-scoring fiasco we first thought.
Analysis: Gates should still be a factor for Fantasy owners, so start him anyway.
News: Gates always seems to do well against the Chiefs, proving Tony Gonzalez and others he is a top-notch tight end as well. He had three touchdown catches in the earlier win this year over the Chiefs. The Chiefs have to figure out how to slow him down, and if that means assigning extra defenders, that leaves them vulnerable for a big run by Tomlinson, or something big on the outside.
Analysis: Start Antonio Gates. Big surprise.
News: Antonio Gates caught six passes for 29 yards in Sunday's 26-17 win over the Indianapolis Colts.
Analysis: Despite this poor performance, Gates remains a must-start for Week 16 at Kansas City.
News: TE Antonio Gates leads all NFL tight ends in receptions (63), yards (874) and touchdowns (eight). In his last six games, he has caught 38 passes for 516 yards and six touchdowns.
Analysis: Gates is a must-start no matter who he plays (he's facing Miami at home in Week 14).
News: Antonio Gates had four catches for 51 yards and a TD in a Week 13 win over the Raiders. He now has six TDs in his last six games.
Analysis: Gates continues to prove why he's one of the top two tight ends in the sport. He should have another productive day in Week 14 when San Diego hosts Miami.
News: The North County Times reports Antonio Gates refused to blame his sore foot as the reason for his bad performance in Week 12. "If I don't think I can play, I shouldn't be out there. My foot was fine," said Gates. "I'm not big on excuses. There were some plays available for me, and I missed some opportunities to make plays down the field, and I just moved forward."
Analysis: Gates should return to form in Week 13 against Oakland, a team that he has dominated in the past. In two games against the Raiders last season, Gates recorded 13 receptions for 164 yards and three touchdowns.
News: Antonio Gates (foot) caught three passes for 39 yards in Sunday's 23-17 win over the Washington Redskins.
Analysis: Barring setbacks with the foot, look for Gates to bounce back and produce in Week 13 against Oakland.
News: According to reports, Chargers tight end Antonio Gates will play in Week 12 at Washington.
Analysis: His status was up in the air all week, but now it's safe to start Gates in all leagues that require starting a tight end.
News: Chargers tight end Antonio Gates practiced for the second day in a row Friday and reported no setbacks with the sprained right foot that has him listed as questionable for Sunday's game with the Washington Redskins. Gates appeared to be moving well during the portion of practice open to the media. "It was basically the same as yesterday -- it got a little bit better," Gates said. "I think it's still going to be a game-time decision for us." Coach Marty Schottenheimer said Gates "did OK" during drills. "We'll see. We'll decide Sunday."
Analysis: So far, so good. He will be a gametime decision, and is a must-start in all formats when healthy.
News: Chargers tight end Antonio Gates practiced for the second day in a row Friday and reported no setbacks with the sprained right foot that has him listed as questionable for Sunday's game with the Washington Redskins. Gates appeared to be moving well during the portion of practice open to the media. "It was basically the same as yesterday -- it got a little bit better," Gates said. "I think it's still going to be a game-time decision for us." Coach Marty Schottenheimer said Gates "did OK" during drills. "We'll see. We'll decide Sunday."
Analysis: So far, so good. Continue to monitor his health through the week as his start will be a gametime decision. He is a must-start in all formats when healthy.
News: Chargers tight end Antonio Gates practiced Thursday, his first workout with the team since spraining his right foot last weekend. Gates, injured Sunday in San Diego's win over Buffalo, was upbeat about his chances of playing Sunday at Washington. "I'm going to constantly prepare to play this weekend and take care of the foot," said Gates, the team's leading receiver with 56 catches for 784 yards and seven touchdowns.
Analysis: So far, so good. Continue to monitor his health through the week as his start will be a gametime decision. He is a must-start in all formats when healthy.
News: Antonio Gates, who suffered a foot injury in Sunday's victory over the Buffalo Bills and underwent an MRI on Monday, said he is preparing himself to play in Week 12 at Washington. "My foot feels a lot better," said Gates, who wore a protective boot on Monday. "It's just day by day. I'm preparing to play this week."
Analysis: Great news for the Chargers and Fantasy owners, who surely could use Gates' production as they aim for the playoffs.
News: The San Diego Union-Tribune reports Chargers TE Antonio Gates (foot) had X-rays on his sprained foot and the results were negative. Gates will undergo an MRI Monday. Head coach Marty Schottenheimer is "not exactly sure" what Gates' status will be for Week 12. The All-Pro tight end left the stadium with his foot in a protective boot and was using crutches.
Analysis: Fantasy owners who have Gates absolutely must monitor this situation before choosing to use him in future weeks. Moreover, Gates' injury impacts all key Chargers players, especially QB Drew Brees. Once we know if and for how long Gates will miss time, we will pass it along.
News: Antonio Gates had five receptions for 77 yards and a touchdown in Week 11 vs. Buffalo before leaving the game with a sprained foot.
Analysis: Gates sprained his right foot at the end of a 21-yard reception midway through the third quarter when he was tripped up by Angelo Crowell and safety Lawyer Milloy landed on him. The Chargers aren't sure how long Gates will be out. If he misses anytime, it will be devastating for Fantasy owners as well as owners of the other Chargers. San Diego plays at Washington in Week 12. Monitor his status throughout the week.
News: Antonio Gates limped off the field and was carted off to the locker room. He will not return in Week 11 vs. Buffalo after suffering a knee/ankle injury.
Analysis: Ouch. Make sure to follow up on his injury after the game.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates caught eight passes for 132 yards at the New York Jets in Week 9.
Analysis: Gates is a must-start every week, including in Week 11 when he comes off his bye to face the Bills at home.
News: Antonio Gates, listed as questionable heading into Week 8, caught 10 passes for 145 yards and three TDs in San Diego's 28-20 win over the Chiefs. He now has six TDs on the season.
Analysis: Gates cements his standing as the top tight end in Fantasy with his Week 8 performance. He is a must start in Week 9 at the Jets.
News: Listed as questionable for the game, Chargers TE Antonio Gates is active and will start in Week 8 vs. Kansas City.
Analysis: Gates should start in all leagues.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates (thigh) has been added to the Chargers injury report as questionable for the team's Week 8 game vs. Kansas City. Gates practiced this week but must have tweaked it on Friday, prompting coaches to make him 50-50 for the game. He did practice on Friday.
Analysis: More should be known on Gates' availability by Sunday. Keep in mind that head coach Marty Schottenheimer prefers to list players as questionable even when they have a good chance of playing.
News: Antonio Gates (thigh) returned to practice Thursday and has not been added to the Chargers' injury report.
Analysis: Gates is expected to start and should be active in all formats.
News: The Chargers official website reports Antonio Gates left practice Wednesday with a sore thigh and is listed as questionable for Week 8 vs. Kansas City.
Analysis: Chances are that Gates will be active, but keep tabs on his status throughout the weekend.
News: Antonio Gates caught eight passes for 72 yards with one touchdown in Sunday's 20-17 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles.
Analysis: Gates is the best tight end in Fantasy Football and a must-start for Week 8 against the Kansas City Chiefs.
News: Gates had two receptions for 17 yards in Week 6 at Oakland.
Analysis: The tight end had a disappointing game, but he remains a must-start for Week 7 at Philadelphia.
News: Antonio Gates had five receptions for 61 yards and a touchdown in Week 5 against the Steelers.
Analysis: Gates is by far the most valuable tight end in Fantasy Football and he has proved that over the past two weekends. He will look to carry the momentum into Week 6 at Oakland.
News: Antonio Gates caught six passes for 108 yards in Sunday's 41-17 win over the New England Patriots.
Analysis: Gates has passed Tony Gonzalez as the league's most valuable and productive tight end. Keep him active in Week 5 against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates had six catches for 92 yards along with a touchdown catch from Drew Brees vs. the N.Y. Giants in Week 3.
Analysis: Gates will be in for a doozy of a day at New England in Week 4, but might actually have a favorable matchup depending on the health of the New England secondary, so definitely don't rule him out.
News: San Diego TE Antonio Gates returned from his one-game suspension in Sunday's loss to the Broncos, catching six passes for 80 yards. He was held out of the endzone.
Analysis: Fantasy owners welcomed back Gates in Week 2, but he was held in check for the most part. He remains a must-start option in Week 3 vs. the Giants.
News: The Chargers activated Antonio Gates on Monday after he served a three-game suspension. "I definitely was with the first group (Monday), so that's a good sign," Gates said.
Analysis: Gates should be in the starting lineup for Week 2 at Denver which is a good sign for the Chargers. Justin Peelle started in the opener at tight end and the Chargers did not have one catch from the position.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates agreed to a six-year contract extension, clinching his long-term status with the team.
Analysis: Gates is still slated to be suspended for the rest of the preseason and the first game of the regular season. He's still the second-best tight end in Fantasy Football, but missing even one contest hurts his stock a bit.
News: The San Diego Chargers have confirmed that Antonio Gates will sign his one-year tender offer, but the team still plans to suspend him for the regular-season opener vs. Dallas.
Analysis: The Chargers will place Gates on the "roster exempt" list, meaning he'll miss the rest of the preseason and Week One. He's still the second-best tight end in Fantasy Football, but missing even one contest hurts his stock a bit.
News: The San Diego Union-Tribune reports that Antonio Gates will report to Chargers camp Sunday, rather than face a suspension. Since he's in his third year, he has to play six games this year in order to qualify as a restricted free agent next season. If he does report, he will have to choose whether to sign a tender, then possibly renegotiate a better contract.
Analysis: When healthy and active, Gates is as dangerous as Tony Gonzalez from the Tight End position in Fantasy play. It looks like this will clear up, although he won't be a happy "training" camper.
News: The Union-Tribune reports TE Antonio Gates and his agent are sticking to their guns regarding Gates' contract extension. It was not known whether or not Gates was going to report to camp at the mandated Saturday, Aug. 20 3:30 p.m. ET deadline. If he doesn't show, he will be put on the Roster Exempt List, which will require a three-week suspension from whenever he does show up.
Analysis: Gates will have to play at least six games this season in order to qualify for free agency after this season. Be sure to monitor this situation closely if you want to draft or have drafted Antonio Gates.
News: The Union-Tribune reports the Chargers have ordered an ultimatum to TE Antonio Gates for him to show up or else be suspended for three games (including preseason). "We need to know who our tight ends are," GM A.J. Smith said when acknowledging the communication with Gates' agent. " ... The light at the end of the tunnel is (the Sept. 11 season opener against) Dallas, coming fast. Now we're going to find out if he's here or not here. I now am making plans for this football team."
Analysis: Gates has until 3:30 p.m. ET on Saturday, Aug. 20 to show up. If he doesn't show and is suspended (it could be for up to three regular-season games), it will make a slight impact on his Fantasy value.
News: Chargers TE Antonio Gates did not show up at the opening of the team's training camp on July 28. "The team initiated discussions with Gates in the middle of the '04 season and talks are progressing," the Chargers said in a statement about Gates' contract. "He is not signing the third-year tender," his agent told The Union-Tribune. "However we are diligently working on a (long-term) deal."
Analysis: If Gates misses parts of training camp, it could hurt his value for the 2005 season. Monitor this situation, and if it doesn't change, adjust your draft boards accordingly.
News: The North County Times reports Chargers general manager A.J. Smith said there is no news to report about a new contract for Antonio Gates. The tight end said the two sides were "going through the motions. I don't know what is going to happen. All I can do is come in here and work hard every day."
Analysis: Gates will be the second tight end (behind Tony Gonzalez) selected in most drafts next season.
News: Antonio Gates reeled in six receptions for 89 yards and a touchdown in Saturday's Wild Card game against N.Y. Jets.
Analysis: Gates established himself among the elite tight ends in Fantasy Football this season and will likely go in the top five rounds in 2005 on Draft Day.
News: Antonio Gates caught seven passes for 49 yards and a touchdown in Week 16 against the Colts.
Analysis: With his 13th touchdown of the season, Gates set the single season touchdown catch record. The Chargers host the Chiefs in Week 17.
News: Antonio Gates had a four-yard touchdown in the third quarter of Week 16 at Indianapolis.
Analysis: The touchdown was Gates' 13th of the year, which sets the all-time NFL record for scores in a single season by a tight end.
News: Antonio Gates had only one reception in Week 15 at Cleveland, but it was good for a 72-yard touchdown.
Analysis: The snowy conditions meant the San Diego offense was mostly ground-based on this day. Gates still provided his Fantasy owners with a nice early Christmas present. The Chargers meet the Colts in Indianapolis in Week 16.
News: Antonio Gates had one reception for 17 yards in Week 14 against the Buccaneers.
Analysis: Gates has had only four receptions for 43 yards in his past two games. He should be able to exploit a decimated Cleveland defense in Week 15 and produce the type numbers Fantasy owners were growing accustomed to.
News: Antonio Gates had only three receptions for 31 yards in Week 13 against the Broncos.
Analysis: Gates entered Sunday's game with eight touchdowns in his past four games, including at least one score in each. He will look to rebound in Week 14 against Tampa Bay.
News: Antonio Gates caught seven passes for 72 yards with two TDs in Sunday's 34-31 win over Kansas City.
Analysis: Gates now has an amazing 11 TDs on the season.
News: Antonio Gates caught eight passes for 101 yards and a touchdown at Oakland Sunday.
Analysis: Some can argue that Gates is the best tight end in Fantasy right now. Continue starting him in all leagues as he plays at Kansas City in Week 12.
News: Antonio Gates will start against the Raiders in Week 11 in Oakland. He leads the AFC with eight receiving toughdowns.
Analysis: Gates is a must-start every week at this point in the season. He has at least four receptions in every game and has scored five touchdowns in the past two games.
News: Antonio Gates had five receptions for 56 yards and three touchdowns (2, 7, 12) in Week 9 against the Saints.
Analysis: Gates has found the end zone eight times over the past six games, inclduing five scores in Week 9 and 10. After a bye, the Chargers will head to Oakland in Week 11. He is the first San Diego receiver since Tony Martin to find the end zone three times in a game back in 1997.
News: Gates had five receptions for 63 yards and two touchdowns in Week 8 against the Raiders.
Analysis: Gates has emerged as a top Fantasy tight end in all formats. He might be in line for another big week against the Saints spotty defense in Week 9.
News: Antonio Gates had seven catches for 61 yards in Week 7 against Carolina.
Analysis: Gates should be owned and active in all leagues that require a starting tight end. The Chargers host the Raiders in Week 8.
News: Gates had eight receptions for 93 yards and two touchdowns in Week 5 against Jacksonville.
Analysis: After two mediocre performances, Gates has posted 150 yards and three touchdowns over his past two games. He has emerged as a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Antonio Gates had seven receptions for 57 yards and a touchdown in Week 4 against Tennessee.
Analysis: Gates will look to maintain his high-level of play in Week 5 against Jacksonville. He has emerged as a solid No. 1 tight end in leagues of 10 teams or more.
News: Antonio Gates (foot) had four receptions for 30 yards in Week 3 against the Broncos.
Analysis: Gates remains a solid Fantasy option despite a mediocre week against the Broncos. Look for him to rebound against the Titans in Week 4 with a solid effort.
News: According to the San Diego Union-Tribune, Chargers tight end Antonio Gates (foot) did not practice on Thursday. Gates continues to be listed as questionable for Week 3 at Denver.
Analysis: Coach Marty Schottenheimer is optimistic Gates would practice on Friday so you should monitor this situation. Gates has emerged as a must-start in leagues that require a tight end.
News: San Diego tight end Antonio Gates (foot) is listed as questionable for Week 3 vs. Denver.
Analysis: Gates has emerged as a must start in all leagues that require a starting tight end. Keep him active.
News: Chargers tight end Antonio Gates suffered a sprained foot sprain in Week 2 against the New York Jets.
Analysis: Gates will have the injury evaluated on Monday. At this point, he is questionable for the Week 3 game at Denver.
News: Antonio Gates caught four passes for 39 yards against the Jets Sunday.
Analysis: Gates continues to be an excellent starting option at Denver in Week 3.
News: Antonio Gates had eight receptions for 123 yards in Week 1 at Houston.
Analysis: Gates will look to carry the momentum into Week 2 against the Jets. He might emerge as a must-start in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Antonio Gates (ankle) was able to play at San Francisco Thursday.
Analysis: Gates is one of the Chargers' best receivers and should be starting as a No. 1 tight end in most Fantasy leagues.
News: Antonio Gates (ankle) was inactive for Friday's preseason game against Seattle.
Analysis: Gates might be able to return for the preseason finale on Sept. 2 at San Francisco. Gates might be the safety valve for whichever quarterback emerges as the starter in San Diego. He is worth adding in the middle- to late-rounds, as he might be the Chargers' top receiver.
News: The team's official website reports Antonio Gates was unable to practice on Thursday.
Analysis: He is questionable for Friday's preseason game against the Seahawks.
News: Chargers coach Marty Schottenheimer said Antonio Gates has looked "very impressive" during offseason workouts, according to the team's official website.
Analysis: Gates is a solid sleeper candidate and could emerge as a good No. 1 tight end this season.
News: Antonio Gates (ankle) was able to play in Week 17 against Oakland. He had two receptions for 36 yards.
Analysis: Gates might be a big sleeper on Draft Day in 2004 at the tight end position.
News: Gates had a career-high five receptions for 117 yards in Week 15 against Green Bay.
Analysis: Gates entered Sunday's game with only 12 catches for 172 yards. He is worth a roster spot in larger keeper leagues.
News: Antonio Gates tied a season-high with three receptions for 49 yards and a touchdown in Week 13 against Kansas City.
Analysis: Gates entered Sunday's game with only one reception in his past two games. Despite Week 13's score, he is not worth any Fantasy attention.
News: Gates had three receptions for 55 yards in Week 10 against the Vikings. He also scored a touchdown.
Analysis: Despite the solid afternoon, Gates is not worth adding in most Fantasy leagues.
