Chargers' Jackson Expects to Play Sunday

Barring setback, receiver is 'good to go'

OK. Time to try this again.

After suffering a calf strain in pre-game warmups two weeks ago, Chargers wide receiver Vincent Jackson practiced in full for the first time on Friday and expects to face the Chiefs on Sunday.

The veteran, who missed the first 10 games due to a contract dispute, would essentially be making his season debut. On Nov. 28, he played only two snaps against the Colts without a target before the calf strain forced him to the sideline.

On Thursday, Jackson said the injury sapped his explosiveness and is not yet at 100 percent. He called himself "good to go" as long as things went smoothly on Friday, which they did.

With wide receivers Patrick Crayon (wrist) out and Legedu Naanee (hamstring) doubtful to play and tight end Antonio Gates (foot) a game-time decision, the Chargers are in dire need of receiving weapons. Last week, the Raiders successfully challenged the hampered unit with man-to-man coverage in a 28-13 Chargers loss.

A healthy enough Jackson could command attention from the Chiefs secondary. Last year, on Oct. 25, he torched Kansas City for five catches, a season-high 142 yards and a touchdown. He ranked second in the NFL with 10.9 yards per target on the season.

If the Chargers lose on Sunday, their hopes for a fifth consecutive AFC West title will end.

"It was good that he was able to go and hold up, but he got the reps with Philip (Rivers), and I think he's excited about playing," coach Norv Turner said. "I hope when he gets into the speed of the game and everything, he can stay and play because he makes a difference for us."

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