San Diego, CA (Sports Network) - The Chargers and six-time Pro Bowl tight end
Antonio Gates agreed to terms Wednesday on a contract that will keep him in
San Diego through the 2015 season.
Gates, who is one of the best at his position, played in all 16 games for the
Chargers last season, leading the team with 79 catches for a career-best 1,157
yards. The 6-foot-4, 260-pound Gates also scored eight touchdowns. His 14.6
yards per catch average was the highest in the NFL among tight ends.
"Antonio is a special player and person. He is everything we are looking for
in a Chargers player," said general manager A.J. Smith. "His talent and
contributions to our team speak for themselves. His work ethic and desire to
be the best are unmatched. He has been a major part of the success we have had
over the past several years, and we are thrilled he will continue to be with
us for years to come."
In 109 career games with San Diego, Gates has caught 479 passes for 6,223
yards and 59 touchdowns. Gates has led the Chargers in catches each of the
last six seasons (2004-09).
"I've been blessed my whole career to be with one team." Gates said. "It's
always good to get [the contract] out of the way. The goal is to win a
championship. We all are human and it becomes a distraction even though you
might not want it to be. It's always great to be able to go ahead and do what
you need to do and get it out of the way."
