Chargers sign Antonio Gates to five-year extension

The San Diego Chargers aren't doing any business at this time with wide receiver Vincent Jackson, offensive tackle Marcus McNeill and linebacker Shawne Merriman.

Their coffers are not closed, though, to six-time Pro Bowl tight end Antonio Gates.

He's now under contract through 2015.

According to NFL.com, Gates' deal is worth $36.175 million and includes $20.4 million in guaranteed money.

“Antonio is a special player and person. He is everything we are looking for in a Chargers player,” general manager A.J. Smith said. “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.”

Gates was named to the Chargers' all-decade team.

He caught 79 passes last season for a career-high 1,157 yards and eight touchdowns.

His 14.6 yards per catch average was the highest in the NFL among all tight ends.

"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."

Since his rookie season of 2003, Gates leads all tight ends in touchdown catches with 59. He ranks second in yards (6,223) and third in catches (479).

There are presently seven modern-era tight ends enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame and Gates’ career touchdown total of 59 exceeds all seven. The Hall of Fame list includes former Charger Kellen Winslow along with John Mackey, Ozzie Newsome, Dave Casper, Jackie Smith, Charlie Sanders and Mike Ditka.

Gates needs just 62 catches and 518 yards to equal Winslow’s career statistics.

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