Antonio Gates to See Foot Specialist

Added on Sep 27, 2011 by Scott in

NFL

Chargers tight end Antonio Gates is scheduled to see a specialist today to further examine his ailing right foot. Gates missed Sunday’s win against the Chiefs one week after being held without a catch versus the Patriots. The problem seems to be accumulated scar tissue which is causing constant discomfort. The team wants to rule out anything serious before proceeding with treatment.

Gates first injured the foot late in the 2010 season. He went on to miss the final six games after posting 50 catches for 782 yards and ten touchdowns. Thus far in 2011, he has eight receptions for 74 yards and zero scores.

The 31-year-old five-time All-Pro has dealt with foot issues in the past. In February 2008, a dislocated big toe on his left foot required surgery to repair. He played through pain during the first half of the 2008 season, but didn’t miss any games. Prior to 2010, he was sidelined only two games from 2004 to 2009.

There’s no doubt Gates can manage the pain. However, it’s apparent he lacks the explosive burst that has made him one of the greatest tight ends in NFL history. As a result, the Chargers offense, which has been one of the league’s most potent in recent years, has struggled to consistently move the ball.

At their current pace, the Bolts will score 100 fewer points than they did last season when they boasted the number one ranked offense. Gates’ ability to dominate between the hashes opens up opportunities on the outside for wide receivers Vincent Jackson and Malcolm Floyd.

Without Gates at full speed, quarterback Philip Rivers has been forced to check down to running backs Ryan Mathews and Mike Tolbert, who have combined to catch 34 passes in three games. Rivers will still put up gaudy stats, but not having a healthy Gates limits his options for big plays down the field.

San Diego hosts Miami on Sunday. Whether or not Gates will be available has yet to be determined.

Source: Pro Football Weekly