SAN DIEGO – One of the greatest tight ends in NFL history is returning to the San Diego Chargers for at least one more season.
NFL Insider Ian Rapoport reports that Antonio Gates reached a two-year deal with the Chargers Wednesday. Terms were not disclosed. The deal cannot be signed until the free agency window opens at 1 p.m.
Happy to remain a @Chargers . My intentions have always been to retire in San Diego . No place I'd rather be. Best Fans and organization.
— Antonio Gates (@AntonioGates85) March 9, 2016
The 35-year-old Gates has spent his entire 13-year career with the Chargers, amassing totals of 844 receptions, 10,644 yards and 104 touchdowns, seventh all time in the NFL and only seven touchdowns behind only Tony Gonzalez among tight tends.
In 11 games last season, Gates had 56 catches for 630 yards and five touchdowns. He was suspended the first four games for violating the league’s policy on using performance enhancing substances.
