Chargers starters Ryan Mathews (neck) and Jared Gaither (groin) have missed both practices this week. Neither player is taking mental reps in the early part of Thursday's practice. Nosetackle Aubrayo Franklin (knee) hasn't practiced, either. It's expected he will become the defense's first starter to miss a game with injury. Antwan Barnes is practicing for the first time since suffering a hamstring injury. Source: San Diego Union Tribune
