Week 1 vs Cardinals
While the Chargers have touch matchups on paper against the Cards all over the field this week, the TE could end up being a difference maker in this one. Arizona ranks 32nd in allowing fantasy points to TEs and could be a way the Bolts plan their attack.
But even so, Antonio Gates ranks just 14th on our TE list making him a middle-of-the road TE2 option. Teammate Ladarius Green could take away targets and both are ranked fairly close this week. Even with a good matchup, Gates is a risk until we see how the Bolts put this position to use in their offense.
Fantasy Upside
Despite his advancing age, Antonio Gates still commands attention from defenses in the middle of the field, and teams have to game plan for him. As ESPN.com pointed out, Gates' presence allowed players like Keenan Allen, Danny Woodhead and fellow TE Ladarius Green to shake loose in the passing game. Gates also provides a good veteran presence in the locker room. He was also productive, finishing with 77 catches for 872 yards and four touchdowns even as the younger, faster Green emerged as a big-play threat the second half of the season.
Fantasy Downside
Gates fumbled twice last season and bobbled another pass that led to a Philip Rivers' interception against Cincinnati -- not enough to diminish Rivers' willingness to throw his way, but it could be a growing concern.
Bottom Line
Despite all the worries about Green and talk he can't gain separation like he used to, Gates finished last season with a team-high 114 targets. He should continue to serve as Rivers' favorite target -- and that alone is worth something -- especially with fantasy owners looking for younger players with more perceived upside.
