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Los Angeles Chargers: Possible one-year replacements for Hunter Henry

By Jason Reed

CARSON, CA - DECEMBER 03: Hunter Henry #86 of the Los Angeles Chargers walks off the field during the game against the Cleveland Browns at StubHub Center on December 3, 2017 in Carson, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
CARSON, CA - DECEMBER 03: Hunter Henry #86 of the Los Angeles Chargers walks off the field during the game against the Cleveland Browns at StubHub Center on December 3, 2017 in Carson, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images)
(Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images) /

Antonio Gates

Is there really anyone else that can step up and fill this void for the Los Angeles Chargers?

Dean Spanos is going to have to open up his wallet and pay Antonio Gates a bit more than he is worth at this point in his career. That is what happens when the team announces that they will not re-sign a player, only to come knocking on his door to give it one last go at a Super Bowl with Philip Rivers.

And that is just fine. Pay Gates more than he is worth to give it one last retirement tour with the Los Angeles Chargers. He is a legend and arguably the best tight end in NFL history, he deserves that respect. And while he is not the same Antonio Gates of even five years ago, his familiarity with the offense and connection with Rivers would still make sparks fly in 2018.

Adam Schefter said that Gates was an option for the Chargers. That is how you know this is the real deal.

Gates can still be productive for the Chargers, evident from his last season. Despite taking a much smaller role, Gates still caught for over 300 yards and three big touchdowns for the team. Just two seasons ago Gates had seven touchdown grabs with 548 yards receiving. As the primary tight end, especially as a red zone threat, Gates can give the Chargers a 500-yard, five touchdown season.

That might sound crazy to expect out of a then 38-year old tight end and it is. However, if anyone can pull it off, it is Antonio Gates.

Next: Chargers' most important games next season

Personally, I am hoping that the Los Angeles Chargers do swallow the pride and re-sign Gates to a one-year deal. What is the worst that can happen? Give it one more go.

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