Oakland Raiders Versus The AFC West: Tight Ends

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Dec 7, 2014; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Chargers tight end Antonio Gates (85) cannot hang onto a pass as New England Patriots free safety Devin McCourty (32) defends during the third quarter at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports

San Diego Chargers

For a lot of years, the Chargers had one of the most dominant tight ends in the AFC West, if not the entire NFL, in Antonio Gates. At age 35 and heading into his thirteenth NFL season, Gates is feeling the effects of father time and his tank appears to be near empty. He’s even said that he would like to play fewer snaps in 2015 – and then said he hadn’t said that.

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Either way, Gates is beginning to decline a bit and seems to be closer to the end of his career than he is the start of it. Which means that the very unproven Ladarius Green is likely going to get some increased playing time in 2015.

In his three seasons in the league, Green has amassed 40 receptions for 658 yards and three touchdowns. Not exactly prolific numbers. But if QB Philip Rivers‘ back is still acting up when the season rolls around, Gates and Green are going to become even more vital to him as safety valve receivers.

Green has no hope of filling the shoes of Antonio Gates but is still very young and can grow into the position.

Next: Number Two

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