The Facts: Following up on the ongoing story. ... According to Union Tribune staffer Michael Gehlken, both the Chargers and Gates want the veteran TE to continue playing in San Diego this season.
Diehards Line:
Although Gates is scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent next month, the Chargers plan to meet with his agent, Tom Condon, in Indianapolis next week at the NFL Scouting Combine. Whether a deal is struck there remains to be seen, but no one should be surprised to see a deal come soon enough. While no timetable is set, Gehlken reports "an air of formality surrounds it all." Injuries limited Gates to just 11 games last season, but he remained the team's most productive tight end. He finished with 56 catches for 630 yards and five touchdowns. He has 104 touchdowns, just one of a cadre of franchise receiving records. His lasting chemistry with Philip Rivers makes him an interesting Hall of Fame candidate. Four of San Diego's tight ends -- Gates, Ladarius Green, John Phillips and David Johnson -- have expiring contracts. Don't be surprised if Gates and the promising Green are both back in San Diego in 2016.