LaDainian Tomlinson Would 'Hate' to See Antonio Gates with Any Team but Chargers

Tight end Antonio Gates has long been a mainstay for the San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers franchise, and Bolts legend LaDainian Tomlinson has no interest in seeing the future Hall of Famer play elsewhere.

When asked Wednesday by TMZ Sports if Gates should pursue signing with another team, LT said, "I think he should retire a Charger. ... I definitely think he still can play, though."

Gates has spent his entire 15-year NFL career with the Chargers, who recently announced that they would not re-sign the 37-year-old for the 2018 season.

Although Tomlinson thinks Gates can still perform, the thought of him playing for another team is something that doesn't sit well with the Hall of Fame running back: "[Gates] became known as one of the greatest Chargers ever. I would hate to see him put on another uniform. It just doesn't seem right."

Gates is an eight-time Pro Bowler and three-time All-Pro first-team selection. He is also No. 1 all time in nearly every major receiving category for the Chargers, including receptions (927), receiving yardage (11,508) and receiving touchdowns (114).

Gates had 30 grabs for 316 yards and three scores in 2017, and he could help a team in need of a tight end, but he is more synonymous with the Chargers franchise than perhaps any other player.