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Come Fan with UsTuesday, August 4, 2026

Ryan Mathews, Antonio Gates Expected To Play Week 3 For Chargers

The San Diego Chargers could have two of their main playmakers back on the field this weekend as running back Ryan Mathews and tight end Antonio Gates both participated in practice on Wednesday, according to the San Diego Union-Tribune.

Mathews has been out since suffering a broken clavicle on Aug. 9 on his first preseason carry of the season, and he is poised to make his season debut against the Atlanta Falcons this Sunday. He was a full participant on Wednesday and is expected to be on Thursday as well.

Mathews told the Union-Tribune:

I feel great, I feel healthy, and I feel strong. I think (the coaches) know what I can do. I know they know I’m ready. It’s a long season, and they’re going to be real smart with me. Really, it’s just taking it day by day and seeing whether I go Saturday when they make that final decision.

Gates suffered a rib injury on Sept. 10 in the Chargers’ season opener that left him sidelined last week. He was a limited participant on Wednesday, though head coach Norv Turner said he “looked good.” How his body reacts to Wednesday’s practice will determine his participation on Thursday.

For more on the Chargers, head to Bolts From The Blue.

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