Mike Tolbert Injury: Why You Must Start Chargers RB in Fantasy Football Week 2

San Diego Chargers running back Mike Tolbert blew up in Week 1 before he had to leave the team's 24-17 win over the Minnesota Vikings with a knee injury. Tolbert had 12 rushes for 35 yards and a touchdown, while adding nine catches for 58 yards and two more touchdowns.

Luckily for fantasy owners, Tolbert's knee injury is appears to be minor, and head coach Norv Turner confirmed that the fourth-year back is fine. He is fully expected to play in Week 2 against the New England Patriots.

Tolbert has emerged as San Diego's third-down back and main red-zone option. That has sent his fantasy value soaring, as quarterback Philip Rivers has begun to rely on him often. With wide receivers Vincent Jackson and Malcom Floyd and tight end Antonio Gates getting a ton of attention from defenses, Tolbert has emerged as Rivers' main safety valve.

The fact that Rivers hit Tolbert nine times out of the backfield in Week 1 should tell you all you need to know about his comfort in looking for the Coastal Carolina product. The trust between the two makes Tolbert a must-start this week, despite what initially looked like a tough matchup against New England.

Sporting what should be an improved defense this season, the Patriots surrendered 488 total yards to Miami Monday night. The Dolphins have the wholly average Chad Henne at quarterback and returned the 21st-ranked offense from last season but still posted huge numbers in their Week 1 matchup. That's good news for the Chargers, whose offense is far superior to Miami's.

Anyone who owns Tolbert should expect him to put up numbers in Week 2, especially since his knee injury appears to be minor. With how awful the Patriots looked defensively on Monday night, Tolbert is a sure bet to score you some points in Week 2.