Curtis

Brinkley

Brinkley was active three times in 2010, carrying the ball twice for 11 yards. If he suits up against the Jets on Sunday, his contributions will likely be limited to special teams.

Brinkley has yet to pass his concussion tests. Coach Norv Turner indicated that Mike Tolbert (hamstring) “looks good” after a second straight full practice. Expect Tolbert to carry the load against the Packers this week.

With Ryan Mathews (calf) inactive, Brinkley led San Diego in carries on Sunday. The former undrafted free agent from Syracuse was ultimately used sparingly in 2011, largely because Brinkley is not much of a rushing threat. His 30 carries over the course of the season may go down as a career high. Brinkley can play in the passing game, but is a replacement-level back or worse.

He won’t be active against the Chiefs. Curtis Brinkley should serve as Ryan Mathews’ primary backup, but it wouldn’t be surprising if he received fewer than five touches. Mathews’ workload should be massive against the Chiefs’ 25th-ranked run defense.

With Mike Tolbert (hamstring, hand) sidelined, Brinkley will be “up” as Ryan Mathews’ primary backup. However, Brinkley is a borderline NFL talent that has two career carries. We’re expecting the Chargers to ride Mathews until the wheels fall off tomorrow night.

Brinkley is in a race to get cleared for Week 9 after a late-game concussion Monday night. With Mike Tolbert back from his hamstring and hand injuries, Brinkley isn’t likely to be a fantasy factor against Green Bay regardless.

Brinkley seems to have turned a corner on Thursday. He’s yet to pass his concussion tests, but coach Norv Turner expects him to do so prior to Sunday’s game. If he does gain clearance, Brinkley will be a clear-cut backup to Mike Tolbert.

Brinkley is expected to “spell” Mike Tolbert against the Packers. A candidate for no more than 6-9 touches, Brinkley just won’t be a Week 9 fantasy option.

This looks like a healthy scratch for Brinkley and it confirms Ryan Mathews, Mike Tolbert and Jacob Hester are all close to 100 percent. Outside of their offensive linemen on injured reserve, the Chargers are healthy. The rest of their inactives: WR Bryan Walters, T Tony Moll, LB Everette Brown, LB Nate Triplett and S Darrell Stuckey.

Curtis Brinkley has played well in his place, converting on a 20-yard reception to setup his own touchdown plunge. He then caught the subsequent 2-point conversion on an out-route from Rivers, and has taken over lead back duties down the stretch. Unless Mathews and Mike Tolbert’s injuries are truly serious, however, there’s no reason to look at Brinkley.