Antonio Gates will begin to prepare for his first regular season game of 2015 this week, when the San Diego Chargers take on the Pittsburgh Steelers. Gates finished his four-week suspension after violating the NFL's policy on performance enhancing drugs.
Antonio Gates returning for Chargers, fantasy owners in Week 5
The Chargers will have their Hall of Fame tight end back on the field in Week 5. We take a look at the fantasy implications.
Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
Tight end Ladarius Green has performed well during Gates' absence. Green has started three of the last four weeks, totaling 14 receptions for 174 yards and two scores. Gates' return should boost the production of players around him. He's a security blanket for quarterback Philip Rivers - the two have combined for the most touchdowns by a quarterback-tight end duo in NFL history.
Gates commands the attention of any defense that faces him, which bodes well for rookie running back Melvin Gordon. Gates will keep defenses from stacking the box as long as he’s on the field. Gates will make his long awaited return under the prime time lights for Monday Night Football.
Fantasy impact: Gates will immediately serve as a TE1 for fantasy owners that picked him up in anticipation of his return. If there's any player that could suffer from Gates' presence, it's Ladarius Green. However, it's very possible for both to coexist, especially with receivers banged up on the Chargers offense. Stevie Johnson left Sunday's game with a hamstring injury. Malcom Floyd was also pulled out of Sunday's game with a concussion, while Gates is completely healthy and well rested. Plug him into your lineups if you own him.
