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 Antonio Gates Reaches Next Step in Pro Football Hall Of Fame Induction
Jan 6, 2019; Baltimore, MD, USA; Los Angeles Chargers tight end Antonio Gates (85) runs after the catch during the third quarter against the Baltimore Ravens in a AFC Wild Card playoff football game at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

Antonio Gates is arguably the greatest tight end in NFL history, and he spent his entire career with the Los Angeles Chargers. Gates was recently inducted into the team's Hall of Fame, but he could be heading to Canton soon. 

Gates has now made it as a finalist for the 2024 HoF class. He will be going against NFL heavyweights like Torry Holt, Reggie Wayne, Andre Johnson, and more. 

Of the 15 names listed as finalists, only five will be inducted. The names listed are all rightfully worthy of the honor. The good news is that Gates' stats should go a long way in securing his HoF induction. 

To put things in perspective, Gates leads all TEs in the history of the NFL with 116 TDs. Legendary TE Tony Gonzalez is a close second with 111, but Gates still has him beat. 

The next closest in TDs is Rob Gronkowski, who has 93. Gates also secured 11.8k yards in his tenure with the Chargers, keeping him at #3 all-time. Gonzalez holds the #1 spot with 15.1k and Cowboys legend Jason Witten is #2 all-time with 13k.

Gates was dominant at the position and holds the record for most receptions, receiving yards, and TDs with the Chargers. 

He was already inducted as a Chargers great, and we imagine he will be wearing a gold jacket soon. 

This article first appeared on FanNation Charger Report and was syndicated with permission.

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