One of the amazing aspects of Antonio Gates’ record-setting pace this season is that he’s battled through a serious toe injury the last two weeks. (We’re also impressed he produces when opponents aren’t paying much attention to Patrick Crayton and Seyi Ajirotutu out wide.)
It turns out Gates suffered another more serious injury during last week’s 123-yard performance, this time to his right foot. (His toe injury was on his left foot.)
Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune reports Gates popped the plantar fascia in his right foot during the game. He couldn’t walk Monday and drove around in a scooter to watch practice Wednesday.
“It’s the worst feeling in the world,” Gates said. “Sometimes you feel your career is coming to an end.”
The Chargers have a bye after they face the Texans, so there will be a temptation to get Gates healthy. Then again, the Chargers are missing their best three wideouts and desperately need a win. Gates reportedly said privately after last week’s win that he was out for Houston.
With a few days to recover, Gates is trying to give himself a chance to play.
“That’s how important this game is,” he said. “I know I said last week’s game was important. But the fact we won makes this game even more important.”
