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Antonio Gates Signed Chargers 16x20 Photo
SKU: AGSDCP0001-069
Antonio Gates was told by scouts that he was too much of a "tweener" (6'4") to make the NFL, so Gates arranged a workout in front of NFL scouts. As many as 19 teams were believed to have contacted Gates about a try out. Gates chose to work out first for The San Diego Chargers. Recognizing his enormous potential, the Chargers immediately signed him to a contract as an undrafted free agent.After finishing a solid 2003 rookie season he caught 24 passes for 389 yards and two scores, he was picked by many experts to have a breakout season in 2004. That year, only his second season in the NFL, Gates became quarterback Drew Brees' favorite target, finishing the season with 81 receptions for 964 yards and 13 touchdowns. With the departure of Drew Brees during the 06' offseason, it was assumed that Gates would suffer a decline in production in 2006 with first-year starter Philip Rivers at the helm. Gates had a relatively quiet start to the season, but he finished the year strongly and ended up with 924 receiving yards and nine touchdowns. He caught two touchdown passes on Dec. 10 against Denver to help the Chargers clinch their division. His slight drop in production from his 2004-2005 numbers was due to the record-shattering season by teammate LaDainian Tomlinson.
Antonio Gates has hand signed this 16X20 photograph. A GT Sports Marketing-Gates hologram of Authenticity is included. Check out our Displays to Protect and Show Off your Collectible! 
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