The Los Angeles Chargers had a very successful season last year, and are looking to repeat that success in 2019. They went 12-4, and won a playoff game on the road in Baltimore. They might've been even more successful had they had tight end Hunter Henry available, as Henry tore his ACL in OTA's and missed the entire regular season.
Antonio Gates seemed all set to retire last season, but was brought back for another crack at it after Henry went down. Gates was serviceable last season, and was able to play a somewhat meaningful role on offense. But Henry will be back in 2019, and the Chargers still aren't sure if they want Gates back.
Speaking from the NFL owners meetings today, Chargers coach Anthony Lynn said the two sides are still in a holding pattern.
“We have to look and see where we are at free-agent wise and money-wise, and just see how some of these things work out. We kind of explained that to him, so we’re just in kind of wait-and-see mode right now,” Lynn explained, per Josh Alper of ProFootballTalk.com.
Gates, one of the greatest tight ends of all time, has said he won't play for any team other than the Chargers. If Los Angeles passes, he'll be hanging them up. For what it's worth, Lynn did say “it’s absolutely a possibility” that Gates is back next year. The future Hall of Fame member has played 16 seasons in the NFL, all with the Chargers.
Gates has always had a special bond with quarterback Philip Rivers, and they connected on some big plays last season even though Gates was 38.
If the Chargers do let him come back, he'll serve only in a backup role behind Henry.
Follow Us
Subscribe