Antonio Gates: Did Play College Football | How Tall Is | Net Worth
Antonio Gates is a name that commands respect in the NFL world. A dominant tight end, record-breaker, and future Hall of Famer, Gates made a massive impact with the San Diego Chargers (now Los Angeles Chargers) during his storied career. From basketball courts to NFL stadiums, his journey is one of the most unique in professional football.
In this detailed article, we explore whether Antonio Gates played college football, how tall he is, and his net worth in 2025. Along the way, we’ll dive into his early life, career milestones, and the legacy he leaves behind.
Who Is Antonio Gates?
Antonio Gates is a retired professional American football player who played tight end for the San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers from 2003 to 2018. He is widely considered one of the best tight ends in NFL history. Gates was born on June 18, 1980, in Detroit, Michigan. Despite going undrafted, he went on to set multiple records and secure a legendary status in the sport.
Did Antonio Gates Play College Football?
No, Antonio Gates did not play college football.
This fact often surprises fans due to his dominance in the NFL. Instead, Gates played college basketball at Kent State University, where he was a standout power forward.
Why Didn’t He Play College Football?
Gates initially wanted to play both basketball and football in college. He was recruited by Michigan State under Nick Saban, but the coaching staff wanted him to commit solely to football. Not wanting to give up basketball, Gates transferred and ultimately settled at Kent State, where he could pursue basketball fully.
Basketball Career at Kent State
Gates led Kent State to the Elite Eight in the 2002 NCAA Tournament, averaging 20.6 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game in his final season. Despite his basketball success, Gates realized his professional future lay in football—despite never having played it at the college level.
How Did Antonio Gates Get Into the NFL Without College Football?
After his college basketball career ended, Gates arranged private workouts with NFL teams. His size, agility, and leaping ability impressed scouts—particularly for the tight end position.
The Chargers Take a Chance
In 2003, the San Diego Chargers signed Gates as an undrafted free agent. It was a gamble that paid off massively. Gates quickly rose through the ranks and became the team’s starting tight end by his rookie season’s end.
How Tall Is Antonio Gates?
Antonio Gates stands 6 feet 4 inches (1.93 meters) tall.
His height, combined with a powerful 255-pound (116 kg) frame, made him a nightmare matchup for defenders. Gates used his basketball background—footwork, positioning, and vertical leap—to dominate in the red zone and on third-down plays.
Antonio Gates’ NFL Career at a Glance
- NFL Debut: 2003 (San Diego Chargers)
- Retirement: 2020 (officially announced)
- Position: Tight End
- Height: 6’4″
- Weight: 255 lbs
- Jersey Number: 85
- Games Played: 236
- Touchdowns: 116
- Receptions: 955
- Receiving Yards: 11,841
Gates ranks third all-time in career touchdowns by a tight end, behind only Rob Gronkowski and Travis Kelce (as of 2025).
What Made Antonio Gates So Unique?
1. Basketball IQ on the Football Field
His ability to box out defenders like a power forward gave him an edge in tight spaces.
2. Chemistry with Philip Rivers
Gates and quarterback Philip Rivers formed one of the most iconic QB-TE duos in history. They connected for 89 touchdowns, making them one of the most productive tandems ever.
3. Durability
Despite the physical nature of his position, Gates remained relatively healthy for most of his career.
Net Worth of Antonio Gates in 2025
As of 2025, Antonio Gates’ estimated net worth is $35 million.
How Did He Build His Wealth?
- NFL Contracts and Salary
Over his 16-year career, Gates earned more than $70 million in NFL salary alone. - Endorsements
He has had endorsement deals with brands like Nike, Pepsi, and Gatorade. - Business Ventures
Post-retirement, Gates has invested in real estate, sports apparel, and owns part of a sports training facility in Southern California. - Media and Broadcasting
Gates occasionally appears as an NFL analyst and commentator.
Personal Life and Family
Is Antonio Gates Married?
Yes, Antonio Gates is married to Sasha Dindayal, a former model, singer, and TV personality. The couple tied the knot in 2011.
Does He Have Children?
Yes, the couple has two children. Gates is known for keeping his family life relatively private, focusing his public image more on sports and charity.
Legacy and Impact on the NFL
Undrafted to Unforgettable
Gates’ rise from undrafted free agent to NFL icon has inspired countless athletes. He proved that talent, determination, and hard work can overcome traditional barriers.
Setting the Standard for Tight Ends
Modern tight ends like Travis Kelce, George Kittle, and Darren Waller have acknowledged Gates as a major influence on their games.
Hall of Fame Bound?
Absolutely. Antonio Gates became eligible for the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2024, and it’s widely expected that he will be inducted soon—possibly in 2025.
Antonio Gates: Awards and Accolades
- 8× Pro Bowl Selection (2004–2011)
- 3× First-team All-Pro (2004–2006)
- San Diego Chargers All-Time Team
- NFL 2000s All-Decade Team
- Most Touchdowns by a Tight End in a Season (13) at the time
- NFL Record: Most Career TDs by a Tight End (surpassed in recent years but still top-tier)
Life After Football
Gates has transitioned smoothly into post-NFL life.
Coaching and Mentorship
He occasionally works with the Chargers’ staff in an advisory role and is involved in tight end development.
Charity Work
Gates runs the Antonio Gates Foundation, focusing on inner-city youth development, academic scholarships, and sports programs in Detroit and Southern California.
Interesting Facts About Antonio Gates
- Did Not Attend NFL Combine – Yet had one of the most successful NFL careers of any undrafted player.
- NBA Aspirations – Initially hoped to play in the NBA before switching to football.
- Never Played College Football – One of the very few NFL stars to never play at the college level.
- Basketball Heroics – Scored 41 points in a single college basketball game.
- NFL Ironman – Played in over 230 games at one of the most physically demanding positions.
FAQs About Antonio Gates
Did Antonio Gates play in the NBA?
No, although he had aspirations and the skill set, he was never drafted or signed by an NBA team.
When did Antonio Gates retire?
He officially announced his retirement from the NFL on January 14, 2020.
Is Antonio Gates in the Hall of Fame?
Not yet, but he is widely expected to be inducted soon, possibly in 2025.
How many Pro Bowls did Antonio Gates make?
He was selected to eight Pro Bowls between 2004 and 2011.
What is Antonio Gates doing now?
Gates is involved in mentoring, business, and charity work. He also occasionally appears in football-related media.
Final Thoughts
Antonio Gates’ journey is one of the most remarkable in NFL history. From basketball courts at Kent State to breaking records in the NFL, his path was anything but conventional. Despite not playing college football, he outperformed many who did, redefining what it means to be a tight end.
His height (6’4″), athleticism, and basketball IQ helped him excel, and his net worth in 2025—estimated at $35 million—is a testament to his sustained success both on and off the field.
Whether you’re a long-time NFL fan or just curious about his incredible journey, Antonio Gates stands as a shining example of how talent and perseverance can overcome any obstacle.
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