Chargers’ Gates retires following 16-year career

LOS ANGELES — Antonio Gates,

who became one of the most prolific tight ends in the NFL without playing a down of college football, announced his retirement Tuesday.

Gates spent his entire 16-year career with the San Diego and Los Angeles Chargers. His 116 touchdown catches are the most by a tight end in league history.

Gates, who did not play this season, will join the Chargers front office as a legends ambassador. He is the franchise leader in receptions (955), receiving yards (11,841) and touchdowns. His 220 regular-season games are second. He had eight seasons when he had eight or more touchdowns and 21 multi-td games.

Among tight ends, Gates’ receptions and yards are third, and his games rank fourth. He was a three-time selection to the All-pro team as well being picked for the Pro Bowl eight times. He will be eligible for consideration for the Pro Football Hall of Fame beginning with the Class of 2024.

Gates played football at Detroit Central High School. He originally went to Michigan State to play football and basketball but left when

Nick Saban only wanted him to play football. He transferred to Eastern Michigan but would eventually end up at Kent State, which he led to the Elite Eight in the NCAA Tournament in 2002.

A person familiar with the situation said the Carolina Panthers agreed to terms on a contract to make LSU passing game coordinator Joe Brady their new offensive coordinator.

The person spoke on condition of anonymity Tuesday because the Panthers had not confirmed the move.

The 30-year-old Brady, who will become the youngest offensive coordinator in the NFL, worked closely with Heisman Trophy winning quarterback Joe Burrow, who led the Tigers to a win over Clemson in the national championship game.