On Thursday night, former Chargers tight end Antonio Gates was named to the four-man Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2025, joining defensive end Jared Allen, defensive back Eric Allen, and wide receiver Sterling Sharpe. It was the smallest class since 2025 and left out some intriguing names such as quarterback Eli Manning, kicker Adam Vinatieri, and linebacker Luke Kuechly.
With Gates now set to receive a gold jacket and bust, Chargers fans can now look towards the Class of 2026 which will feature a host of prominent players that starred this century, including two former quarterbacks for the Bolts in Philip Rivers and Drew Brees.