Antonio Gates Injury: Updates on Chargers Star's Hamstring and Return

Updates from Thursday, Sept. 11

Michael Gehlken of U-T San Diego reported on Antonio Gates from Chargers practice:

Updates from Monday, Sept. 8

Michael Gehlken of U-T San Diego confirms Antonio Gates' status for Week 1 against the Arizona Cardinals:

Gehlken previously reported on Gates just a few hours before tonight's game against the Cardinals: 

Original Text

Some surprising news regarding long-time San Diego Chargers tight end Antonio Gates surfaced on Saturday when Michael Gehlken of U-T San Diego reported the 12th-year veteran popped up as questionable on the team's injury report:

Shortly after, Gehlken elaborated on the injury and Gates' probability of playing in the Chargers' road opener on Monday Night Football against the Arizona Cardinals:

Last season, the Chargers offense was resurgent under new head coach Mike McCoy. Quarterback Philip Rivers regained his form and Gates was one of the primary beneficiaries. The tight end recorded 77 receptions for 872 yards—his largest total since 2009—and four touchdowns.

Should Gates be forced to miss any time, expect Ladarius Green to receive a bigger role in the offense. The third-year tight end proved to be a matchup nightmare at times last season. He caught 17 passes for 376 yards and three touchdowns due to his combination of athleticism and a 6'6", 240-pound frame.

While Gates has been Rivers' security blanket since 2006, he's also 34 years of age. Don't expect San Diego to rush him back into action before he's ready.