Vincent Brown's injury could have lasting impact

Fantasy owners stashing Vincent Brown are undoubtedly a little frustrated to find out that the second-year pass-catcher may be out for another four weeks, at least. Rehabilitation from his broken ankle is going a little more slowly than the San Diego Chargers forecasted after he'd suffered the injury in Week 2 of the preseason.

This shouldn't have come as a big surprise. A couple of weeks ago, Brown was pretty positive about the status of his recovery, but a few days later, Norv Turner was less enthusiastic. The team's head coach was unwilling to target a specific comeback week.

Those who own Brown will probably continue to wait because of his potential. One anonymous Bolt called him the team's best receiver. Antonio Gates referred to him as the team's best route-runner. The media had projected the San Diego State product as the Chargers' top wideout in 2012.

I doubt that he's worth the roster spot in fantasy leagues - not anymore, anyway. San Diego expected Brown to return to action sometime in the second half of the season, but they can't know what kind of contribution he'll make. A fractured ankle can heal completely in eight to 12 weeks, but it usually takes months for an athlete to regain the strength in his leg to perform at his pre-injury level.

Brown may be an asset to the Chargers while they try to keep pace with the Denver Broncos in the AFC West this season. He just doesn't seem likely to help fantasy owners, unfortunately, until 2013.

Nicholas Minnix writes for KFFL.com, an affiliate of USA TODAY Sports Media Group