Antonio Gates Injury: Should Fantasy Owners Add Randy McMichael as Handcuff?

Fantasy owners who have Antonio Gates have to be hating life right now. The San Diego Chargers tight end was worthy of a high pick in almost all leagues, especially given how explosive the team's offense was supposed to be this season.

Well, Gates is sidelined for the foreseeable future with a foot injury, and though the Chargers are not currently considering putting him on injured reserve, the team is planning to give him as much time as he needs to get healthy. Though he is occupying a roster spot, the Chargers think he'll be able to help the team in the second half of the season.

If you are a Gates owner in fantasy football, your tight end spot likely went from a strength to a major weakness thanks to his injury. Solid tight ends are tough to find, and once the season starts replacements are even harder to come by.

While I wouldn't recommend him as a TE 1 option just yet, you might want to pick up Gates' backup, Randy McMichael. Though you should only snag the 10-year vet if you have a huge hole at the position, quarterback Philip Rivers loves his tight ends, and McMichael has been around the league and knows how to play.

He will definitely not be a replacement for Gates, McMichael does have 11 catches for 102 yards thus far, and now that the Chargers know Gates will be out awhile, they are sure to involve McMichael in the offense more.

With the Dolphins McMichael had a few good seasons from 2004-06. He had seasons of 73 (2004), 60 (2005) and 62 (2006) catches. While he's not anything special, he has good hands and works hard to get open. He is also a solid blocker so San Diego can keep him on the field in almost all situations.

If you're desperate for a tight end, McMichael might be a good fix for a few weeks, especially with San Diego receivers Vincent Jackson and Malcom Floyd battling injuries.