The Los Angeles Chargers still think there’s a chance tight end Hunter Henry’s torn ACL isn’t necessarily season-ending. That’s after the Chargers elected to place Henry on the physically unable to perform list and not injured reserve, which leaves the door open for him to return at some point this season (per Herbie Teope of NFL.com).

While on the PUP list, Hunter isn’t allowed to practice or play the first six weeks of the season. After the sixth week, Henry becomes eligible to return to practice. The team then has a three-week window to decide whether to activate him or shut him down for the rest of the season.

Although, Henry tore his ACL in May, so a seven-month recovery would probably be the most optimistic timetable for his return as opposed to returning by Week 7. Seven months from May would be sometime around December. He could also have a shot to play in the postseason if the Chargers are in contention.

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However, it’s still more likely that the Chargers opt to proceed with caution and hold Henry out until the following season.

The Chargers don’t necessarily need Henry to hurry his way back to the lineup, anyway. Aside from starter Virgil Green, they’ve also re-signed veteran Antonio Gates to a one-year deal on Sunday to provide some added depth at tight end.