San Diego Chargers running back Ryan Mathews ready to return to regular team football – NFL News
The wait is finally over for San Diego Chargers running back Ryan Mathews to return to regular season games as he is hopeful to start in Week 3 game against Atlanta Falcons on Sunday, September 23, 2012.
It has been a long time coming for Mathews who tried his level best to start in the season opener.
He got a broken clavicle during the first preseason game against Green Bay Packers on August 09. Chargers’ medical personnel and specialist put up a four to six-week timetable for his return. Although Ryan repeatedly insisted that he was fit enough to play,
Chargers took the precautionary approach.
Mathews admits that his team is hoping to get a breakout season from him. He himself is looking forward to finally fulfilling the potential of his talent. Ryan previously said:
“I know I’ve made strides but I haven’t completely broken out yet, and I know people are waiting to see that happen. I look forward to show the mission I am on and show what I can do this season.”
The running back certainly looked good last season as he covered 1,091 yards for which he received the Pro Bowl honours as well.
It was in complete contrast to his rookie year in which he had failed to meet the expectation of having been drafted as the 12th overall pick in the 2010 draft.
Moreover, replacing a legend like LaDainian Tomlinson put some added pressure on Mathew’s young shoulder. Now in his third season, he feels that he has overcome those obstacles to be a better player. Mathews said:
“There was a lot of pressure in my first year and even a little last year because of what LT was to people around here. But that pressure is gone. I think I've shown I’m my own player.”
Mathews’ fellow teammates have seen taking the responsibility of the offensive game.
With the addition of Mathews in the team, Chargers, who are currently standing 2-0 this season, look a completely different side.
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