Antonio Gates was unable to find work in the NFL this past season, and the tight end will not be pursuing an opportunity to play in 2020.
On Tuesday, Gates issued a statement announcing he has decided to retire from playing. The 39-year-old said he will remain with the Los Angeles Chargers organization in a community relations role.
— Antonio Gates (@AntonioGates85) January 14, 2020
Gates finishes his career with 955 receptions for 11,841 yards and 116 touchdowns, which is the most ever for a tight end in the NFL. His next stop will undoubtedly be the Hall of Fame.
Gates played 16 seasons in the NFL, all with the Chargers. The team brought him back early in 2018 after Hunter Henry went down with an injury, and Gates indicated after that season that he wanted to keep playing. It’s remarkable he was able to play as long as he did at such a high level, especially given how physical the tight end position is. He’s easily one of the best tight ends of all time.
