NFL Divisional Playoffs - New York Jets v San Diego Chargers
SAN DIEGO - JANUARY 17: Tight end Antonio Gates #85 of the San Diego Chargers warms up on the field prior to the AFC Divisional Playoff Game against the New York Jets at Qualcomm Stadium on January 17, 2010 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images)
Posted: Thursday, 29 July 2010 4:50AM

Chargers Ink Gates Through 2015 Season



SAN DIEGO - The Chargers and six-time Pro Bowl tight end Antonio Gates agreed to terms Wednesday on a contract that will keep him in San Diego through the 2015 season.

Gates, who is one of the best at his position, played in all 16 games for the Chargers last season, leading the team with 79 catches for a career-best 1,157 yards. The 6-foot-4, 260-pound Gates also scored eight touchdowns. His 14.6 yards per catch average was the highest in the NFL among tight ends.

"Antonio is a special player and person. He is everything we are looking for in a Chargers player," said general manager A.J. Smith. "His talent and contributions to our team speak for themselves. His work ethic and desire to be the best are unmatched. He has been a major part of the success we have had over the past several years, and we are thrilled he will continue to be with us for years to come."

In 109 career games with San Diego, Gates has caught 479 passes for 6,223 yards and 59 touchdowns. Gates has led the Chargers in catches each of the last six seasons (2004-09).

"I've been blessed my whole career to be with one team." Gates said. "It's always good to get [the contract] out of the way. The goal is to win a championship. We all are human and it becomes a distraction even though you might not want it to be. It's always great to be able to go ahead and do what you need to do and get it out of the way."

Story Copyright 2010 The Sports Network Image(s) Copyright 2010 Getty Images

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