The Los Angeles Chargers have a big decision to make with regard to the future of Antonio Gates. The legendary tight end is set to hit free agency this offseason after having one of his worst seasons as a professional in 2017.

Chargers GM Tom Telesco, who will meet with Gates’ agents this week in Indianapolis, admits that he faces a difficult choice with regard to Gates’ fate with the team.

Per Omar Ruiz of NFL Network:

Chargers GM Tom Telesco says they’re meeting with Antonio Gates’ agents this week in Indy. “Not an easy answer” when specifically asked if he wants Gates back. Says lots of moving parts with roster but Gates locker room presence is incredible & he can still play well.

Gates, an eight-time Pro Bowler and three-time first-team All-Pro, has played his entire 15-year NFL career with the Chargers franchise. He played all 16 games last season, the first time he’s done so since 2014. However, he had just 30 catches for 316 yards and three touchdowns, easily his lowest numbers since his rookie year in 2003.

The Chargers have their succession plan at tight end set with Hunter Henry ready to take over as Gates’ heir apparent. But having said that, it’s still not easy to move on from a franchise legend like Gates. Even if he’s clearly not the dominant player he once was, Gates still has a lot to offer the team in terms of his experience and leadership in the locker room.

While it would be great to see Gates end what is likely a Hall of Fame career with the Chargers, it doesn’t always work out that way. The Chargers know this firsthand as another team legend, LaDainian Tomlinson, left to play two years with the New York Jets. In the end, it’ll be up to Telesco to decide what’s best for the team and whether that involves Gates.