Antonio Gates suspended for 3 Weeks

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Statement from the San Diego Chargers on Saturday, August 20, 2005:

Tight end Antonio Gates did not report and sign a contract by 12:30 pm today. The Chargers and Gates’ agent Andre Colona negotiated throughout the morning but could not reach an agreement on years or compensation. At this point, Gates does not feel comfortable in signing the team’s tender offer and going back to work.

As a result, Gates will be placed on a Roster Exempt list and will not play in the first three games following the date he signs with the team. Currently he will miss the games versus Minnesota (Aug. 26), San Francisco (Sept. 1) and the season opener versus Dallas (Sept. 11).

The Chargers are disappointed Gates will miss the season opener versus Dallas, but remain hopeful of reaching an agreement soon.