HOF dropped the ball by not electing Antonio Gates on first try

In a major miss by the Pro Football Hall of Fame, former tight end Antonio Gates wasn't among the 2024 class of inductees. 

Gates played 16 seasons with the San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers, compiling a resume that's more than worthy of enshrinement in Canton. However, voters rejected the idea that he deserved to get in on his first try. 

An eight-time Pro Bowler and three-time first-team All-Pro, Gates is unquestionably one of the best tight ends the game has ever seen. Retiring after the 2018 season, he still ranks first in touchdowns (116) and third in receptions (955) and receiving yards (11,841) among tight ends. 

Former Kansas City Chiefs standout Tony Gonzalez is the only tight end to receive the call to the Hall the first time around. While Gonzalez may have Gates beat in catches (1,325) and yards (15,127), he did so playing in 34 more games. 

Gates' accolades as a tight end are well known, but he's 17th all-time in receptions and seventh in receiving touchdowns. That puts his numbers on par with the best ever, regardless of position. 

The 2024 Hall of Fame class features Julius Peppers, Devin Hester, Dwight Freeney, Andre Johnson, Patrick Willis, Steve McMichael and Randy Gradishar. While it's certainly a deserving group, it's hard to fathom how Gates doesn't fit in. 

Gates wasn't only a good player who collected stats over time. A basketball player who never played a down of college football, Gates faced a steep climb just to make it to the NFL. Not only did he make it, but once he arrived, he became arguably one of the greatest ever to play a position he helped revolutionize. 

One day, Gates will earn his rightful spot in the Hall of Fame. However, the committee charged with highlighting the best football has to offer let Gates and fans of the game down this time.