(6'4, 240 lbs.)

Age: 30

Experience: 8th season

College: Kent State

Draft Status:  Undrafted

One of the least likely NFL success stories, Antonio Gates had every intention of playing in the NBA.  In his senior season at Kent State, Gates averaged 20.6 points and was an honorable mention All-American.  However, after realizing that he lacked the height needed to become a regular in the NBA, Gates turned his attention to the NFL.  He scheduled a workout with the San Diego Chargers, and shortly after, the club offered him a contract as an undrafted free agent. 

Gates made an immediate impact in the NFL, with 24 receptions for 389 yards, an average of 16.2 yards per receptions and 5.6 yards after catch, both remarkable averages for an NFL tight end.  Gates elevated his play to the Pro-Bowl level the very next season, as he became quarterback Drew Brees' go-to target with 81 receptions for 964 yards and a career-best 13 touchdowns. 

Gates has since offered stability for the Chargers passing game, hauling in a minimum of 60 passes for 700 yards and eight touchdowns in every season.  His production slipped a bit in 2008, as Gates was riddled by injuries, yet he still played every game for the third year in a row.  Gates even is a safe bet to control the ball, having fumbled the ball to the opposing team just two times in his career despite 479 career receptions. 

Gates already ranks as one of the greatest offensive tight ends to play in the NFL.  He has six Pro Bowl appearances, three All-Pro selections, and made the NFL 2000s All-Decade Team.   

2009 RECAP:

The 2009 season was an excellent bounce back campaign for Gates.  The Chargers turned into more of a passing attack, and Gates responded wioth 79 receptions for a career-best 1157 yards.  Gates also scored eight touchdowns and never turned the ball over. 

Even as he approached his 30^th birthday, Gates did not slow down.  He averaged a career best 6.6 yards after catch and his 14.6 yards per reception was his best performance since his rookie season.         

2010 OUTLOOK:

Things seem to be working in the favor of Antonio Gates' fantasy managers this off-season.  The team will deploy a rookie at running back, which suggests that Philip Rivers and the passing game will be leaned upon heaviliy. 

The big difference from last season is that lead wide out Vincent Jackson is not expected to suit up for the Bolts.  Not only is he suspended for two games due to DUIs, but he is also holding out for a larger contract, and the Chargers are likely to trade him away for future considerations such as draft picks. 

As a result, the Chargers targets will be a little green with Malcom Floyd stepping into a more prominent role.  That means Gates will be the most proven receiving threat, and will likely be the focal point of the Chargers offense this season.  The only concern here is whether Gates' 30-year old body will hold up under the heavy workload.

At FFChamps.com we have Antonio Gates ranked as the second best tight end in the NFL behind Colts standout Dallas Clark.  We project 70 receptions for 980 yards and nine touchdowns.  If you're looking to invest in his services, Gates has an average draft position as the eighth pick of the fourth round.