San DIego Chargers TE Ladarius Green’s time could be now

Jan 5, 2014; Cincinnati, OH, USA; San Diego Chargers tight end Ladarius Green (89) catches a pass in the end zone for a touchdown while being defended by Cincinnati Bengals defensive back Chris Crocker (32) during third quarter of the AFC wild card playoff football game at Paul Brown Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

The San Diego Chargers released their injury report for the game on Monday and surprisingly Antonio Gates was listed on the report as questionable. He pulled his hamstring during practice and could keep him out of the game for Monday. Chances of him playing are 50-50.

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If Gates has to take the time to rest his hamstring, the Chargers have a capable player to take the vacancy. Ladarius Green has been talked about a lot during the offseason as a possible breakout candidate this season. He has all the tools to be a big threat in the offense. He has the speed to break away from defenders and has worked hard on his blocking. He is getting more and more rounded as an offensive threat.

If Gates has any issues with the hamstring during the game or the season, Green will be trusted on a little more. The Chargers would have a much more dynamic offense with both on the field, but it still will be able to chug along without Gates for a little time. We could be seeing the changing of the guard sooner than we thought.