Some time before this 2011 San Diego Chargers season is over, Antonio Gates will become the Bolts' all-time leader in receptions. He's been in second place for a while, but is now on Charlie Joiner's heels. Here's the current rankings:
- Charlie Joiner, 586 receptions
- Antonio Gates, 582 receptions
- Kellen Winslow, 541 receptions
The Chargers go up against a very good Baltimore Ravens defense this Sunday, but that doesn't mean that Gates won't break (or at least tie) that record this week. In 3 career matchups against the Ravens, the future Hall of Fame Tight End is averaging 5 catches and roughly 75 yards per game.
I am always in awe of the phrase "A legend in his own time". Think about how difficult it is to not just be a legend, but to be so good that everyone knows you're a legend before you're even finished whatever it is you're doing. I think Gates, who has been the top TE in the NFL since trading in his basketball shoes for football cleats, is a legend in his own time. Appreciate the time you get to spend watching him and, if you're at the game on Sunday, make sure to stand and cheer for him when he breaks yet another Chargers record.