Antonio Gates

Antonio Gates was one of the best tight ends of his era. Gates also was a loyal and reliable performer, spending all 16 years of his career with the Chargers organization. He went on one of the most unique journeys in NFL history after playing basketball at Kent State. Gates went undrafted, but signed with San Diego in 2003. His quick success would pave the way for other former basketball standouts to try their hand at football. Gates was named an All-Pro for the first time and made the first of eight straight Pro Bowl trips in 2004. He continued to succeed when Philip Rivers became the team's starting quarterback in 2006. That duo helped lead the Chargers to the AFC Championship Game in 2007. Gates made the transition with the franchise to Los Angeles in 2017 and retired following the 2019 season. He left as the franchise leader in receptions, receiving yards and touchdowns. At the time of his retirement, Gates 116 touchdown grabs were also the most in NFL history by a tight end and sixth all-time regardless of position. He was named to the NFL 2000s All-Decade Team and the San Diego Chargers 50th Anniversary Team.