The Facts: One of the most polished route runners to join the league as a rookie, Henry proved a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses in his first NFL season. With another offseason of work with quarterback Philip Rivers, Henry should be even better in Year 2 while shouldering more of the workload.
Diehards Line:
So wrote ESPN.com's Eric D. Williams, who reminded readers that in 2016, the Arkansas product finished with 36 receptions on 54 targets for 478 receiving yards and eight touchdowns, seven of which came inside the red zone. Williams added that Future Hall of Fame tight end Antonio Gates will still get his touches. Gates turns 37 next month and needs one more touchdown to eclipse Tony Gonzalez for the all-time TD record of 111 for tight ends. Gates actually played more offensive snaps than Henry last season (554 for Gates, 546 for Henry). But expect that to change in 2017 as Henry moves into the role as the Chargers’ main tight end, with Gates being saved for third downs and in the red zone.