The undrafted basketball player who became the greatest receiving tight end of his era.
Antonio Quartez Gates was born in Detroit, Michigan in 1980. He played college basketball at Kent State, never playing college football — making him the most successful undrafted tight end in NFL history. The San Diego Chargers signed him as an undrafted free agent in 2003. He played 236 games and scored 116 touchdowns — both records for a tight end at the time of his retirement. His route running and hands, developed through basketball, were exceptional. He and Philip Rivers formed one of the most productive quarterback-tight end partnerships in NFL history. He is considered the finest receiving tight end before the era of Rob Gronkowski.
Best Known For
Pro Bowl 8x
Honours & Achievements
Career Honours
- Pro Bowl 8x
- San Diego Chargers franchise leader
- Hall of Fame eligible 2024
Career Journey
Timeline
1980
👶 Born in Detroit, Michigan
2018
🏁 Retired from professional sport
🏟️ San Diego Chargers
🏆 Pro Bowl 8x
🏆 San Diego Chargers franchise leader
🏆 Hall of Fame eligible 2024