Since the Los Angeles Chargers saw tight end Hunter Henry suffer a season-ending torn ACL, there has been the lingering possibility that former Pro Bowl tight end Antonio Gates could return to the mix.

This had finally come to fruition over the weekend as he agreed to a one-year deal to return to the team after being cut back earlier in the offseason. General manager Tom Telesco recently voiced that the franchise greatly appreciates that Gates has decided to rejoin the fold, according to Jack Wang of The Orange County Register.

“I’m grateful that he wants to come back and play with us,” General Manager Tom Telesco said. “But I’m also grateful — and this is probably more important than the first part — he’s coming back for all the right reasons.

“He’s not coming back to put up more statistics. He’s not coming back to prove anything to anybody, because he doesn’t have to do that. He’s coming back because he loves his teammates, and I think he sees something special in this football team that he wants to be a part of. That’s exciting.”

Gates may not be the player he once was, but he could prove once again to be a valuable asset in the passing game. He already possesses a strong bond with Pro Bowl quarterback Philip Rivers that should see him remain a huge factor in the red zone. Gates is coming off a campaign where he recorded 30 catches on 52 targets for 316 receiving yards and three touchdowns while playing in all 16 regular-season games for the first time in three years.

The 38-year-old has a chance to step in and lead the charge at the position given the lack of stability and experience that the team has at the spot on the roster. This may be the best late offseason addition that the team could have turned to given his comfort and experience with the offensive scheme.

Ultimately, the Chargers have brought back Gates to what could be a significant addition at a crucial spot in the offense that may bring much balance.