Chargers' Gates 'would love to come back' for 17th season

The Los Angeles Chargers' season ended with a divisional-round loss to the New England Patriots on Sunday and questions immediately turned to tight end Antonio Gates' future.

Following the 41-28 loss, the 16-year veteran said he'd be open to a return, both to football and to the Chargers.

"You really don't want to end it in this fashion ... When you think about what we built here, do we have an opportunity? I really believe that in my heart. Of course, I would love to come back and play," Gates said postgame, according to the Orange County Register's Gilbert Manzano.

The career Charger signed a one-year contract just days before the 2018 season opener. He was brought in after tight end Hunter Henry tore his ACL during organized team activities.

Gates had one of his least productive seasons in 2018, recording 28 catches for 333 yards and two touchdowns in 16 games. But he caught nine passes for 76 yards in the playoffs, adding a touchdown grab in what could have been his final game with the Chargers.