Antonio Gates Injury: Is Randy McMichael a Must-Start vs. Chiefs

Antonio Gates will be out of the lineup today against the Kansas City Chiefs.  The injury to Gates, who is widely regarded as a top tight end, is causing a lot of discomfort for fantasy football owners.  When on the field, Gates puts up big numbers, as the favorite target of Phillip Rivers.

However, the problem is that Gates has struggled to stay healthy.  He has shown a lot of toughness in playing through a handful of injuries, but some of those same injuries have caused him to miss several games.  It appears that Gates is always battling some sort of injury, making owning him frustrating.

Gates has a foot issue that will likely plague him all season.  He is officially out for today's game, so some might consider adding Rand McMichael to their fantasy rosters.  McMichael has had a successful career, but is not at the same level as Gates.

McMichael has some fantasy value because of the presence of Phillip Rivers. Rivers loves to spread the ball around, and is capable of making those around him better.  Last season, Rivers remained productive despite injuries to Antonio Gates, Malcolm Floyd, and the absence of Vincent Jackson.

The Chargers are facing a Kansas City Chiefs team that has given up 89 points in two weeks.  It would not be crazy to expect a 40-point performance from the Chargers offense.  Those yards and touchdowns need to go somewhere.  The absence of Gates means that Vincent Jackson will receive increased targets, but McMichael also figures to be involved.

McMichael isn't a top-five fantasy tight end, but he could easily record five-plus catches and a touchdown.  If you own Gates, lack a good backup, and have limited waiver wire options you could look at McMichael.

Jon Dove is a featured columnist at Bleacher Report, covering the NFL and NFL draft. Check him out on Twitter @Jon_Dove42.