Chargers RB Ryan Mathews Hasn’t Been Cleared For Contact Yet

San Diego Union Tribune Michael Gehlken reports that Chargers RB Ryan Mathews, hasn’t been cleared for contact yet, and practiced on the side without a helmet or pads.

Mathews broke his collarbone on his first carry of the preseason against the Packers and has been out ever since. While Mathews wanted to be ready for the season opener, that goal was predictably out of reach. He’s projected to return on Week 3 against the Falcons.

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Chargers running back Ryan Mathews had his eyes set on returning to the field Monday night after breaking his clavicle a little over a month ago. It appears the chances of that happening are slim now since the star back still hasn’t been medically cleared for contact, per Scott Bair of the North County Times.

“I don’t have a schedule,” Chargers head coach Norv Turner said. “I will say that I love his attitude regarding the injury. He’s doing everything possible to get back. He’d have to get the reps necessary to prepare for a game, and he’s not at that point yet.”

Although Mathews isn’t officially listed as “out” for Monday night’s game against the Raiders, the fact he hasn’t been cleared for contact nor taken the necessary reps in practice says it all. Ronnie Brown will likely start for the Chargers in their season opener as Mathews aims for a return in week two.