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.

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

In honor of his achievement, the Chargers celebrated by adopting a goat in Gates's honor. The goat, a nod to the team considering Gates the "greatest of all time" tight end, is named Gatesy after him. Gatesy resides at the San Diego Animal Sanctuary and Farm.

During the NFL honors, which airs on FOX 11 at 9 p.m. PT on February 6, Gates was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Longtime teammate and fellow Bolts legend LaDainian Tomlinson helped welcome Gates into Canton, Ohio, during the Class of 2025 induction announcement.