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Ryan Mathews Return To Full Health Could Be Delayed: Fantasy Implications

Ryan Mathews’ recovery from a broken clavicle could take longer than expected, according to NFL.com. We break down the fantasy implications.

SAN DIEGO - SEPTEMBER 19: Running back Ryan Mathews #24 of the San Diego Chargers carries the ball against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Qualcomm Stadium on September 19 2010 in San Diego California. (Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images)
SAN DIEGO - SEPTEMBER 19: Running back Ryan Mathews #24 of the San Diego Chargers carries the ball against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Qualcomm Stadium on September 19 2010 in San Diego California. (Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images)
SAN DIEGO - SEPTEMBER 19: Running back Ryan Mathews #24 of the San Diego Chargers carries the ball against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Qualcomm Stadium on September 19 2010 in San Diego California. (Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images)
Getty Images

Ryan Mathews' recovery from a broken clavicle could take longer than the 4-6 weeks projected by the San Diego Chargers, according to NFL.com. Former Chicago White Sox and Chicago Bulls team doctor Dr. Neil Ghodadra told blogger Jason Smith that Mathews may not be full healthy for eight more weeks, and will be a big re-injury risk if he comes back early.

Analysis: Mathews has said that he can be ready by Week 1, but even coaches have said that’s an optimistic projection. Ghodadra said that it takes at least six weeks for the bone to heal properly, so putting Mathews on the field just four weeks after he sustained his injury doesn’t seem realistic or safe. Expect Mathews to take a tumble down draft boards. He could wind up being an absolute steal in the middle rounds, but at this point there is entirely too much risk involved in taking him with an early pick.

For more on Mathews and the Chargers, check out the SB Nation blog Bolts From The Blue.

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