"Outside linebacker Larry English and tight end Antonio Gates have been placed on the Physically Unable to Perform list, meaning they can work out and participate in meetings but not practice.

Both moves could accurately be described as a formality and precautionary, though there is some uncertainty about English following surgery to repair a foot fracture that kept him sidelined most of 2010. Still, the team is expecting him to be its opening day starter opposite Shaun Phillips.

The Chargers are being cautious bringing Gates back from the plantar fasciitis that limited him last season. While there has been acknowledgment from several people, including Gates, that there is an element of unknown in his recovery, numerous sources insist the Chargers expect Gates to be healthy for the season."