When the Chargers declared an intention to convert running back Ryan Mathews into a workhorse this season, many wondered whether he’d stay healthy.
Few imagined that he’d be injured so quickly.
The team has announced that Mathews has a broken clavicle, and that he’ll miss the next four-to-six weeks.
Mathews will have surgery on Friday.
The injury bumps up the likes of Ronnie Brown, Jackie Battle, Curtis Brinkley, Michael Hayes, and Edwin Baker.
The Chargers also could try to sign an available veteran, like Cedric Benson. Or the Chargers can wait for the coming roster cuts. Or the Chargers can swing a trade with a team that believes it has more running backs than it needs.
Or the Chargers can just pass the ball more.