The Los Angeles Chargers’ Antonio Gates has officially announced his retirement from the NFL. His last game was against the New England Patriots in the 2018 Divisional Round. He did not play in 2019.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter broke the news on Tuesday afternoon.
Antonio Gates, one of the most prolific players to compete in the National Football League, announced his retirement today.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 14, 2020
Gates is the all-time NFL touchdown leader among tight ends. He played all 16 seasons of his career with the San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers. He leads the entire franchise in yards, receptions, and touchdown catches.
A two sport athlete at Kent State University, he played power forward for the Golden Flashes’ basketball team while also playing tight end. During his tenure there, he helped the Flashes to an Elite 8 berth. His number 44 has been retired by the university.
He owns the touchdown record for tight ends over Tony Gonzales by five. After going unsigned in 2019 as a free agent, the 39 year old will officially retire from the league. His last year in the league, he collected 28 receptions for 333 yards and two touchdowns.
Featured Image courtesy of Scott Varley, Daily Breeze/SCNG
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