Chiefs benefit from Antonio Gates suspension
The San Diego Chargers got some very bad news on Thursday afternoon. San Diego learned that All-Pro tight end Antonio Gates would be suspended for the first four games of the NFL season due to a violation of the league’s performance-enhancing drug policy, per Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.
With Gates out for the first quarter of the season, the Kansas City Chiefs have an easier road to the postseason. Even though Gates is 35 years old, he is still the main weapon for Philip Rivers in the red zone, showcased by his 12 touchdowns in 2014. Only Julius Thomas and Rob Gronkowski matched that production at the tight end position.
The Chargers are very reliant on Gates to convert third downs as well. Last year, Gates accounted for a team-high 44 first downs. Ladarius Green will replace him, who caught only 19 passes for 226 yards as a backup in 2014. It will be interesting to see how offensive coordinator Frank Reich attacks defenses with Gates out of commission. It is possible we will see an increased workload for running back Melvin Gordon, or perhaps more targets for third-year receiver Keenan Allen.
Regardless, this is the type of blow that could cost San Diego a playoff spot. The Chargers aren’t likely to make the postseason by a huge margin, so a game here or there might make all the difference. It’s stunning that Gates was popped for PED use, considering he has been the consummate professional throughout his 13-year career to this point.
From a long-term perspective, does this affect Gates going into the Hall of Fame? Gates has over 10,000 receiving yards and 99 touchdowns, so he’s an absolute lock if this doesn’t change the opinions of writers. It will be interesting to see how that plays out in the future. Also, Gates is in the last year of his deal with the Chargers. If he doesn’t want to retire at the end of the year, does San Diego try to bring him back again?
While Gates is out of the lineup, the Chargers play the Detroit Lions, Minnesota Vikings, Cleveland Browns and Cincinnati Bengals.