One of the most accomplished tight ends of his era is officially closing the book on his NFL career.
Antonio Gates announced his retirement Tuesday after a 16-year career with the Chargers, during which he was a three-time All-Pro selection and eight-time Pro Bowl pick.
Gates, who starred in football and basketball at Detroit Central High School from 1994-98, did not play in the NFL in 2019. He had primarily served as either a part-time starter or backup in the previous four years.
Gates, 39, ranks seventh among all players in NFL history with 116 touchdown catches, the most of any tight end.