Michael Gehlken of the Union Tribune reports that contract talks between the Chargers and veteran TE Antonio Gates at the Combine last week “went well” and there’s “mutual interest” in getting a long-term deal in place.
According to Gehlken, it’s “likely only a matter of time” before the two sides reach an agreement on a new contract.
Gates has said previously that he would “love to finish my career” as a member of the Chargers.
“I’d love to finish my career here,” said Gates. “I know one thing: we’re going to fight despite whatever we’re going through. We’ll see how it goes.”
Gates, 36, will be an unrestricted free agent next week after completing a five-year, $36.1 million deal that he signed in 2010. However, there appears to be enough interest and motivation to get a new done that it would be surprising to see Gates reach the open market.
In 2015, Gates appeared in 11 games, accumulating 56 receptions for 630 yards and five touchdowns. Pro Football Focus has him rated as the No. 7 tight end out of 67 qualifying players.
We have him featured in our Top 100 – 2016 Free Agents list.
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