"As the Chargers set about figuring out how to stanch the bleeding out of their season, they will likely be without two key contributors in their effort to score points Sunday against the New England Patriots.

Wide receiver Malcom Floyd suffered a hamstring strain midway through the Chargers' 20-17 loss at St. Louis and is almost certainly out this week, as the Chargers do not want the injury to linger for the player whose 513 receiving yards are fourth-most in the NFL.

And kicker Nate Kaeding, who "tweaked" his groin before Sunday's game is also unlikely to play.

"I have a feeling he would not be able to kick next week," head coach Norv Turner said.

Still, it felt Monday as if the good news outweighed the bad.

That's because there is optimism tight end Antonio Gates will play against the Patriots, as tests revealed he is not seriously injured.

A left toe injury suffered in Sunday's 20-17 loss to the St. Louis Rams is merely a sprain and is unrelated to his previous foot problems. Turner compared it to an injury that kept cornerback Quentin Jammer out of practice one day earlier this season.

"I am hopeful he can play this week," Turner said.

That is at least better than what might have been when Gates left the Edward Jones Dome in a protective boot after a game in which he did not play the final 2½ quarters."