The Los Angeles Chargers have been in talks with Antonio Gates throughout the offseason about the tight end returning for a 16th NFL season, and he is going to do just that.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported on Sunday that Gates and the Chargers have reached a contract agreement. The team later confirmed the news:
We've agreed to terms with Antonio Gates. pic.twitter.com/bHTo7Lq4L3
— Los Angeles Chargers (@Chargers) September 2, 2018
The Chargers reportedly wanted to sign Gates before training camp, but it’s possible the 38-year-old preferred to avoid the grind of summer. He has spent his entire career with the Chargers and obviously doesn’t need any time to establish chemistry with Philip Rivers, so he should have no trouble getting up to speed.
Gates was considering retirement after last season, but an injury to another tight end in L.A. likely caused him to change his mind. While Gates had just 316 yards receiving and three touchdowns last season despite appearing in all 16 games, it makes sense that the Chargers wanted him back.
