National Football League

Chargers expect RB Mathews to play Sunday vs. Kansas City

Published Dec. 25, 2013 12:00 a.m. ET

foxsports

Chargers rookie coach Mike McCoy says he expects Ryan Mathews to play against the Kansas City Chiefs despite the running back missing practice Wednesday because of an injured left ankle.

Mathews wore a walking boot to protect his ankle. He has played in all 15 games despite leaving one game with a concussion and two others with a hamstring injury.

''There's a big difference between being injured and being hurt," Mathews said. I'm just trying to work hard and be there for my teammates, and that's all that matters.''

For Mathews, drafted 12th overall in 2010, it would be his first season without missing a game. He has rushed for a career-high 1,111 yards in helping the Chargers (8-7) stay in playoff contention.