| Kicker Nick Novak boarded the Chargers team plane for Kansas City without the benefit of a contract Friday. Novack will likely replace injured starter Nate Kaeding, who left Friday's practice with a groin injury. (US Presswire) |
Chargers left tackle Jared Gaither and kicker Nate Kaeding are listed as questionable for Sunday’s game against the Chiefs, but Gaither appears far more likely to play than Kaeding.
Kaeding left practice early on Friday with a groin injury. Coach Norv Turner said Kaeding would test his groin on Saturday and a decision would be made at that time on the need for a replacement kicker.
However, kicker Nick Novak boarded the team’s plane for Kansas City without the benefit of a contract Friday afternoon, according to a tweet by the Chargers team writer.
Kaeding did not board the plane and stayed in San Diego, according to a tweet by the North County Times. No roster moves were announced by the team.
There is a remote possibility Kaeding, who is 7 of 7 this season, could feel fine on Saturday and fly to Kansas City. However, that scenario appears improbable. In all likelihood, Novak will be the kicker for the Chargers on Sunday.
Novak made 27 of 34 attempts (79.4 avg.) in 15 games for the Chargers after he replaced Kaeding (ACL) last season. The two kickers battled for a job in training camp, but Novak was released during final cuts.
Gaither upbeat: Gaither (back spasms) returned to practice this week after being out since the start of training camp. He fully participated in practice on Friday after being limited on Wednesday and Thursday.
“It’s looking awesome,” Gaither said of his chances to play. “I am preparing to play."
Gaither for the most part was reclusive while he dealt with the injury, but has been much more upbeat this week.
“Nobody wants to get hurt,” he said. “It’s a downer. You want to be with your guys constantly. You don’t want to be away from the team rehabbing when everyone else is practicing.”
Turner listed Gaither as questionable because he is concerned about Gaither’s cardiovascular shape and does not want to have Gaither active on Sunday if he does not play the entire game. Whether or not Gaither plays will truly be a game-time decision.
Injury Report: CB Shareece Wright (right ankle sprain) is listed as out. Kaeding is officially listed as questionable, but appears doubtful. Gaither (back) and ILB Demorrio Williams (hamstring) are also listed as questionable. OLB Antwan Barnes (knee) and CB Quentin Jammer (hand) are probable.
Game preview from a Chargers perspective: Chargers Game Preview: Week 4 vs. Chiefs
Game preview from a Chiefs perspective: Chiefs Game Preview: Week 4 vs. Chargers
Follow Chargers reporter Dan McLellan on Twitter @CBSChargers and @sandiegosports