Chargers Antonio Gates will play Sunday against Jets

San Diego Chargers tight end Antonio Gates will test his right foot and play this Sunday against the New York Jets.

Out since a Sept 18 loss to the New England Patriots, Gates has been dealing with plantar fasciitis in his right foot; an injury that has affected him since last October.

“I’m just hoping that the worst part of it is over and I’m able to play and keep playing,” Gates said.

Along with WR Vincent Jackson and Malcolm Floyd, the return of Gates will provide QB Philip Rivers with plenty of tools against the Jets.  Of Gates’ 69 career touchdown receptions, all but 20 have come inside the red zone.

“The bottom line is that I need to be in a position to go out and contribute,” Gates said. “I don’t want to be a decoy. I’m on a team that’s playing well, and I want to do as much as I can.”