SAN DIEGO -- Antonio Gates says it’s unfair to compare understudy Ladarius Green to himself in terms of his play on field.

The future Hall of Famer says that the 25-year-old Green is his own man, and should develop his own identity with the San Diego Chargers.

Of course, it’s hard for NFL observers to avoid the inevitable comparisons between Gates, who’s been one of the best tight ends in the league over the past decade, and the potential of the athletic Green.

Gates will miss the first four games of the regular season due to violating of the league’s policy on performance-enhancing drugs. Green is slated to step in as Gates’ replacement in San Diego’s base offense.

“Pee Wee is so talented, and I tell him sometimes he just has to be 'Pee Wee;' Be Ladarius Green,” Gates said, referring to Green by his nickname. “Stop worrying about who you are replacing or who you’re trying to be like.

“Act like you just came to a brand new team or a brand new franchise, and go play football. And you’ll be fine. You’re going to make enough plays where people will say, ‘That kid can play.’”

Gates said that if Green focuses on creating his own identity, he true play-making ability will shine. Gates compared his situation with Green to when the New England Patriots had two talented tight ends in Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez.

“He has his own style,” Gates said. “He has his own ability and capabilities that I don’t have in what he can bring to the table. And he needs to exploit that, and I know they will. He’s a big part of what we do, whether I’m in there lined up or not.”