Gates consistently provided key catches, especially on third downs, and served as a safety value for Chargers quarterbacks when plays went off script.

In honor of his achievement, the Chargers celebrated by adopting a goat in Gates's honor. The goat, a nod to the team considering Gates the "greatest of all time" tight end, is named Gatesy after him. Gatesy resides at the San Diego Animal Sanctuary and Farm.

It didn't take long for Antonio Gates to transfer his Kent State basketball dominance to the NFL. Now he's headed to the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Philip Rivers, one of the most accomplished quarterbacks in NFL history, is eligible for Hall of Fame induction in 2026. Rivers spent 16 seasons with the Chargers, leading the team through some of its most competitive years in the league.

When creating a Mount Rushmore of the greatest Los Angeles Chargers of all time, the list can't be complete with tight end Antonio Gates. Thursday night at the NFL Honors, Gates was officially cemented as a member of the 2025 Pro Football Hall of Fame class.

Gates, who caught 116 touchdown passes in a 16-year career spent entirely with the Chargers, is elected alongside defensive end Jared Allen, wide receiver Sterling Sharpe and cornerback Eric Allen.

The Pro Football Hall of Fame has announced its Class of 2025, and among the esteemed inductees is former San Diego Chargers tight end Antonio Gates. Gates, who spent his entire 16-year NFL career with the Chargers, is celebrated as one of the most prolific tight ends in league history.