San Diego Chargers tight end Antonio Gates is expected to be back in the lineup for Sunday's matchup with the Oakland Raiders, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports, citing a source.
Gates missed each of the last two games with a hamstring injury. Though he was able to participate in practice throughout the week, including a full session Friday, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport adds that the veteran could be on a snap count.
Any such limitation to his workload could conceivably give Hunter Henry another game working as the Chargers' top pass-catching tight end.
The second-round rookie took full advantage of that opportunity in his two games as the starter, racking up nine receptions for 133 yards and one touchdown.
Gates' season got off to a slow start before he was forced to the sidelines. He makes his return having recorded just six catches for 35 yards and one score.