Here we go again. San Diego Chargers tight end Antonio Gates , according to his own words, is unlikely to play this weekend against the Miami Dolphins. Gates, who didn't practice Wednesday, told Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune that even with four days until kickoff, "it'd be difficult" for him to play because of his foot injuries. Gates didn't play in last week's win versus Kansas City.

Fantasy Analysis:

If Gates is out for another week -- and it sure sounds like he will be -- Randy McMichael would take over his starting spot once again. But he's not really that valuable in fantasy since he's a blocker more than anything else. If you need a replacement, players such as Greg Olsen, Scott Chandler, Brandon Pettigrew and/or Fred Davis should be available in some leagues. Even deeper, I don't mind the likes of Jermaine Gresham or Ed Dickson. They are all better bets than McMichael.