Gates would 'be a big fan' if Brady signs with Chargers

Antonio Gates will gladly welcome Tom Brady to the Los Angeles Chargers if his longtime rival signs with the AFC West club in free agency.

"If he comes here, I'm gonna be a big fan," the legendary tight end told TMZ.

"I heard that he might come out here and bless us with his presence ... and if he does that, that would be a great sight to see in L.A," he added

Gates spent all 16 seasons of his career with the Chargers. He announced his retirement Tuesday after going unsigned for the 2019 campaign.

There are plenty of rumors about where Brady will play in 2020. The 42-year-old will become a free agent in March, and he told reporters at the end of the season that he isn't sure about his future with the New England Patriots.

"If he does (come to the Chargers), I'll be one of his biggest supporters," Gates said.

Gates and Brady competed against each other for years when the Chargers and Patriots were mainstays near the top of the AFC standings.

Incumbent Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers, who Gates caught most of his 116 career touchdown passes from, is also scheduled to become a free agent in March.