Los Angeles Chargers tight end Antonio Gates has a smaller role with the team this year, and although that is challenging for him, he isn't concerned about individual stats right now, all he wants to do is anything to help the team win games.
The Chargers are currently sitting with a 9-3 record, and the goal for this team right now is a Super Bowl.
“It’s challenging when you become accustomed to doing something for so long and doing it at a high level,” Gates said via ESPN. “But the bigger picture is not what I can do individually. It's more about the team and what I can do to help us win, and I just need to be ready for that time, whenever it’s called.”
Just a few years ago Gates was the number one target for Phillip Rivers but those days are long gone. So far this year he has had 19 receptions, 239 yards, and two touchdowns.
Even without the production, he has been a great locker room guy, and offensive coordinator Ken Whisenhunt has had nothing but praise for him.
“He’s been great,” Chargers offensive coordinator Ken Whisenhunt said. “I understand it. He’s very competitive. He’s one of the best tight ends ever to play this game, and when you are not doing it every snap, it’s tough.
“But I think he is realistic enough to understand too that he probably couldn’t take every snap right now. It’s been great having him, and I think we were all really excited to see some of the things he did last week.”
Although Gates stats aren't eye-popping, he still seems to be a go-to guy when Rivers needs a big catch. Just a few games ago against the Denver Broncos Gates hauled in five receptions for 80 touchdowns and a touchdown. As the Chargers try to win a Super Bowl this year, there is no doubt Gates will still play a big part, even if it doesn't mean catching a ton of passes.
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