San Diego Chargers tight end Antonio Gates has been ruled out for Week 16. Gates recently said he does not expect to play unless the Chargers reach the playoffs. He has missed four of the last six games. He last played in Week 13 against the Oakland Raiders. Despite missing over a quarter of the season, Gates had a great year considering. He currently has 50 receptions, 782 yards and 10 touchdowns. Gates' foot and ankle injuries have worsened as he attempted to play on them. Further aggrevating the injury could have potentially ended his career.

Fantasy Analysis:

It's been a tough year for tight ends. Gates has been down and out. Dallas Clark has been out for weeks now. Inconsistency, sleepers, busts, the position has depth but there have been wild swings in production. Gates was approaching a career year this season but the injuries obviously cut that short. San Diego's offense worked through him and it's unfortuante that a playoff run will be the only way for Gates to see the field again this year. While Gates is out, backup tight end Randy McMichael will play in his place. So far, McMichael hasn't done much to merit fantasy consideration, although he did have five receptions for 55 yards last week.