Chargers' Antonio Gates: Sits out first preseason game

Gates (rest) did not play in Saturday's preseason contest against the Titans despite being listed as active.

Analysis:

The 36-year-old likely won't play much during the preseason, as the Chargers will attempt to keep the veteran tight end fresh heading into the start of the regular season. Gates has been an active participant in training camp, helping mentor rookie TE and second-round pick Hunter Henry while still displaying an innate chemistry with QB Philip Rivers. While Henry will likely cut into his snap count as the regular season progresses, Gates still figures to be a starting caliber tight end in standard fantasy league formats.