The only professional marriage of Antonio Gates' career came in 2003, the Chargers smitten in the basketball talent from Kent State and Gates, an undrafted rookie free agent, head over heels with the opportunity their roster presented.
Both were right.
What followed was a 13-year partnership that has continued through wins and losses, through sickness and health. As free agency nears, nothing has changed.
Like in 2003, the team wants Gates to be a Charger. And like before, so does Gates. The tone surrounding his contract, due to expire next month, provides no sense a divorce is coming.