The Los Angeles Chargers made headlines for all the wrong reasons when they parted ways with tight end Antonio Gates this offseason. However, there is still hope that he can be brought back before the start of the 2018 NFL season.

There has been speculation about Gates' possible return for quite some time now. According to Alex Marvez of SiriusXM NFL Radio, his agent Tom Condon is discussing a potential deal with the Chargers' brass:

Agent Tom Condon told SiriusXMNFL that he's hopeful client Antonio Gates can strike a deal to return to the Chargers. Tom said he's actively negotiating with LAC executive Ed McGuire

The report should come as no surprise. There were questions regarding why the Chargers even parted ways with Gates in the first place. Although he may be on the cusp of retirement, he is still a better option than what is currently on their roster.

Gates' heir apparent in tight end Hunter Henry was ruled out for the season after suffering a torn ACL on the first day of minicamp. Their next best option at tight end is Virgil Green, who mustered up just 14 catches for 191 yards and a touchdown during the 2017 campaign. That said, it is safe to assume that even the veteran Gates would serve as a better option for quarterback Philip Rivers.

Furthermore, his status as a future Hall of Famer could help further boost the morale surrounding the Chargers' organization. It goes without saying they have fallen on some hard times since making the move to Los Angeles. Having Gates on the team would undoubtedly give fans an added dynamic to cheer for.