Gates consistently provided key catches, especially on third downs, and served as a safety value for Chargers quarterbacks when plays went off script.

Gates, who caught 116 touchdown passes in a 16-year career spent entirely with the Chargers, is elected alongside defensive end Jared Allen, wide receiver Sterling Sharpe and cornerback Eric Allen.

It didn't take long for Antonio Gates to transfer his Kent State basketball dominance to the NFL. Now he's headed to the Pro Football Hall of Fame.