Ryan Mathews Injury: Update on Chargers Star's Thumb Injury

San Diego Chargers running back Ryan Mathews has had plenty of issues with injuries. Just when it looked like he was turning a corner and playing well this season, he was struck by yet another injury.

Mathews injured his thumb against the New York Jets and has a questionable return.

UPDATE at 2:20 p.m. EDT

What Happened?

Mathews returned to the lineup for the Chargers in the second quarter. His thumb injury appears to be minor.

What's Being Said About Chance of Re-Injury?

ESPN's John Clayton tweeted about his return:

Lingering Effects Beyond Game

Any time Mathews is injured, it is worth noting. The running back has had trouble staying healthy in the early portion of his NFL career.

It doesn't appear that he's in any pain, and unless something else happens, he should be fine. 

Fantasy Impact

Big-time loss should he miss extended time. Mathews was averaging almost five yards per carry and was really starting to fit in with the rest of this offense.

He was considered a fringe No. 1, high-priority No. 2 fantasy running back.

Who's the Backup?

Mike Tolbert. The Chargers already give Tolbert regular carries, and he is likely owned by someone else in your league unless you handcuffed yourself.

Tolbert is more than capable of being the starting running back for this team.

Devastation Scale: 3/10

Having Mathews has almost been more of a convenience to have on the field than anything else.

The former first-round pick was drafted to be their top guy, but he struggled to stay in form and Tolbert became their guy last season.

Timeline for Return

Listed as questionable. Many expect him to return.

What They're Saying

The Chargers themselves released the information on his injury:

The questionable return is likely more of a precaution then anything else. We should expect to see him out there.

Knowing his checkered past with injuries, it also wouldn't be shocking if they feature Tolbert a bit more though.