Overview
- Gates was enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2025 in Canton, Ohio, on August 2.
- He transitioned from a standout basketball career at Kent State University, where he helped reach the 2002 NCAA Elite Eight, to signing as an undrafted free agent with the San Diego Chargers in 2003.
- Across 236 games in 16 seasons with the Chargers, Gates amassed 955 receptions for 11,841 yards and 116 touchdowns.
- He earned eight consecutive Pro Bowl honors from 2005 through 2012 after catching 13 touchdown passes in his second NFL season.
- His pioneering success has prompted NFL teams to increasingly recruit former basketball players for the tight end position.