Good morning, Chargers fans!

On Thursday night, former Chargers tight end and franchise legend Antonio Gates was named to the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2025. He was one of four players to make up the class which wound up being the smallest since 2005. Gates was joined by defensive back Eric Allen, defensive end Jared Allen, and wide receiver Sterling Sharpe.

To kick off this beautiful Friday, let’s go ahead and use this open thread to share our favorite memories of Gates with the Chargers and in general show our appreciation for what he did for this team and its’ fan base.

And now for today’s links.

Antonio Gates was named to the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2025 (Chargers.com)

Here’s why Antonio Gates made it to the Hall of Fame (Chargers.com)

Check out the best social media reactions to Antonio Gates entering the Hall of Fame (Chargers Wire)

The importance of Antonio Gates making it into the Hall of Fame for Chargers fans (Bolt Beat)

NFL News:

Josh Allen beat out Lamar Jackson for NFL MVP (ESPN)

Drew Brees and Larry Fitzgerald headline the newly eligible players for the 2026 Hall of Fame class (ESPN)

Eli Manning did not make it into the Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility (CBS Sports)

Bears owner Virginia Halas McCaskey passed away at the age of 102 (NFL.com)

Marshall Faulk is Colorado’s new running backs coach (Pro Football Talk)

Ranking the 10 best Super Bowl halftime shows of all time (Sports Illustrated)