Chargers RB Ryan Mathews expected to practice Wednesday

Chargers running back Ryan Mathews was cleared for contact last week and probably would have played Sunday against Tennessee if he had gotten more practice time under his belt. That won't be a problem this week. Head coach Norv Turner said Monday that he expects Mathews to practice when San Diego hits the field Wednesday. Mathews hasn't played since the first preseason game due to a fractured clavicle but according to U-T San Diego's Michael Gehlken, "all signs point to return" for Mathews this Sunday versus the Falcons.

Fantasy Analysis:

Week 3 has been the Chargers' targeted return date for Mathews all along. He might be somewhat limited in his season debut, but I would put him in my lineup right away. As we've seen in the Chargers' first two games, they don't have anyone on their RB depth chart even close to Mathews in talent. I expect him to receive quite a few targets in what should be an offensive battle against Atlanta.