| WR Malcom Floyd received a three-year contract extension through the 2015 season on Wednesday, reportedly worth $12 million with performance clauses that could escalate it to $14 million. (US Presswire) |
The Chargers practiced a few hours earlier than normal on Thursday to prepare for a morning kickoff against the Chiefs on Sunday.
“Try to change things up dramatically,” coach Norv Turner said of the earlier practice. “To get [the players] out of a comfort zone. I think it is away for them to understand that they have to be ready at twelve (Central) when the ball is kicked off.”
Gaither says he’s ready: LT Jared Gaither was once again limited in his second day of practice after being out since the start of training camp with back spasms. “He did more today,” Turner said. “I think he is making the kind of progress that I was hoping for.”
Despite not fully participating in a practice, Turner has not ruled Gaither out from playing Sunday.
“I don’t know if it would be unrealistic,” Turner said. “I know that it would be very difficult. I watched him do it before. He did it a year ago. He came here on a Wednesday and played in a Monday night game and we knew nothing about him. We will just see how he feels tomorrow and where we are going from there.”
Turner did say if Gaither played he would expect him to be in the entire game and not just a few snaps. “I don’t know that you would do that with an offensive lineman,” Turner said. “An offensive lineman, if they play -- they play.”
Gaither admitted he had a difficult time staying in cardiovascular shape while he battled through his back injury, but claimed he has done enough cardio work recently that he would be able to play an entire game. “I’m ready to go” Gaither said with a big smile. “Without a doubt I would play the whole game if permitted.”
Floyd excited about contract: WR Malcom Floyd received a three-year contract extension through the 2015 season on Wednesday, reportedly worth $12 million with performance clauses that could escalate it to $14 million.
Floyd joined the Chargers as an undrafted free agent in 2004. He is currently the Chargers leading receiver with 13 receptions for 227 yards and a TD. Floyd has a 17.5-yards-per-reception average in his career, but due to a variety of injuries, the only season he has played all 16 games was in 2009.
“I was set financially before,” Floyd said of his new contract. “This is to secure me here as a Charger in San Diego. I’m a loyal type of guy. I do like change, but I am just glad that I have a place her with my Charger family. I think I have been spoiled here as a Charger throughout the years. For what I have put them through as far as injuries, not playing to my potential. So, I feel that I owe the Chargers something.”
Turner on officials' deal: Turner and his players consistently took a politically correct stance towards replacement officials, but Turner is happy an agreement has been reached to bring back the regular referees. “I just think it’s great,” Turner said. “It’s great for them in terms of getting back to work and accomplishing what they wanted to accomplish. It’s great for the league. Obviously, the last month has been trying.”
Injury report: CB Shareece Wright (ankle) did not practice. LT Jared Gaither (back) and ILB Demorrio Williams (hamstring) were limited. Williams was a new addition to the injury list. OLB Antwan Barnes (knee) and CB Quentin Jammer (hand) returned to full participation.
What’s next: The Chargers will conclude their preparations for the Chiefs with a walk-through on Friday morning and then fly to Kansas City in the afternoon.
Follow Chargers reporter Dan McLellan on Twitter @CBSChargers and @sandiegosports.