Now that the Chargers have completed their top priority extension, they can turn their attention to unhappy non-campers Marcus McNeill and Vincent Jackson.
ESPN’s Chris Mortensen reports that the team has extended six-time Pro Bowl tight end Antonio Gates for five years. The deal averages $7.235 million annually and includes $20.4 million guaranteed.
According to Mortensen, the deal makes Gates the highest-paid tight end in football. Gates was set to play out the 2010 season in the final year of his contract. He was due a $3.625 million base salary, so Gates’ total net worth is now $39.8 million over six seasons. He’ll be 35 years old at the end of the deal.
A Pro Bowler in six straight seasons, Gates is putting together a Hall of Fame-caliber resume. He’s been a first-team All Pro three times. A converted basketball player, Gates hasn’t missed a game in four years and has averaged nine and a half touchdown catches per season since taking over as a full-time starter in 2004.
Extending Gates was first on Chargers G.M. A.J. Smith’s to-do list with regard to contract decisions. McNeill is up next. Jackson is third in line.