San Diego Chargers tight end Antonio Gates doesn't sound like a player who is ready to hang up his cleats for good.
"This is not the way I expected to be done. I'm definitely leaning toward coming back," Gates said Wednesday, according to Michael Gehlken of the San Diego Union-Tribune.
Next season would be Gates' 15th as a pro. He remains two touchdowns short of the all-time record for tight ends, but could potentially match or break the record this week.
The 36-year-old veteran has one year remaining on his current deal with the Chargers at a cap hit of $5.5 million.
With rookie tight end Hunter Henry emerging as a weapon, Gates is less essential than ever to the Chargers. It's possible the team will attempt to lower Gates' salary for 2017.