The Chargers are looking forward to Gates making an impact both on and off the field when he returns from suspension in Week 5, ESPN.com reports.

The Chargers are looking forward to Gates making an impact both on and off the field when he returns from suspension in Week 5, ESPN.com reports.

Analysis:

Gates is finally set to come back from his four-game suspension just in time for a Week 5 matchup with the Steelers, and the Bolts are thrilled to welcome him back. "We'll be excited to have him back in there," Philip Rivers said. "He helps us on the field and in the locker room. We've certainly missed him. So it will be a plus. We're acquiring a Hall of Fame free agent here in about 24 hours." Ladarius Green performed well in Gates' absence, but Gates' return is coming not a moment too soon, as the Chargers were scrambling for healthy pass catchers in their Week 4 game against the Browns. Gates will take over as the top tight end in San Diego and should immediately assert himself as one of Rivers' favorite targets.