Through the first eight games of the year, Chargers tight end Antonio Gates was a bright spot in an otherwise forgettable start to the season. The eighth-year veteran caught an NFL-high nine touchdown receptions over that eight game span and was among the leaders in receiving yards. But on Oct. 17 in a game against St. Louis, Gates suffered a toe injury. He was forced to leave the contest and did not return. He missed practice the following week but managed to suit up against New England. He didn’t have a catch in the first half against the Patriots, and although he did grab a late touchdown, he finished with just four catches for 50 yards in the game. The perennial pro bowler clearly wasn’t 100 percent and was used more as a decoy than his customary role of go-to-guy. “Everybody knows what kind of competitor he is,” backup tight end Randy McMichael said. “He plays through pain.” If the sure handed former Kent State basketball player can’t get back to being completely healthy – he’s battling an injury to his other foot now – the Chargers will be looking for the supporting cast to step up in the passing game. “If he’s not 100 percent or whatever the case may be then the rest of the guys need to step up and make plays because that’s what this game is all about,” rookie wide out Seyi Ajirotutu said. The Chargers have a deep and talented pool of receivers but other explosive players at the position like Malcolm Floyd and Legedu Naanee have also been hit by the injury bug. That has opened the door for veterans such as Patrick Crayton to become more prominent pieces to the offense. One interesting thing to keep in mind is the apparent future addition of the much maligned Vincent Jackson. The big strong wide receiver with breakaway speed is expected to play his first game of the season Nov. 28. Though his status remains unclear, Jackson could potentially give the Chargers a big boost in the passing game for a late season playoff push. Whether the team will still be in contention then or what Jackson’s role will be is unknown. In the meantime other players will try to make lasting impressions while they have the opportunity. “I need to continue to work hard in practice and be prepared if they call my number and if they do to come in and make a play,” Ajirotutu said.
