Chargers past and present celebrate Antonio Gates’ induction into Pro Football Hall of Fame

Los Angeles Chargers legend Antonio Gates was finally inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame's Class of 2025 this week.

Gates, one of the best to ever play his position in the NFL, was first eligible one year ago and headlined a smaller, four-player class in 2025.

After the reveal, Chargers of the past and present took to social media to celebrate the overdue enshrinement.

Names like Eric Weddle, Wade Phillips and Shawn Merriman sent out big messages. They went beyond “best to ever do it” notes, too, though those are certainly in there. One described Gates with a “there isn’t a more humble human being” too, speaking to Gates’ impact beyond the field of football.

Here’s a look at some of the best reactions to Gates’ big moment:

Spending his entire career with the @chargers, Antonio Gates was a four-time first-team All-Pro. Gates is now Pro Football Hall of Famer No. 381! @visualedgeit #PFHOF25 pic.twitter.com/VYsD4cyobc
— Pro Football Hall of Fame (@ProFootballHOF) February 7, 2025

Yes sirrrrrrrr! The best to ever do it in my mind!!! Congrats Gatesy https://t.co/mxfqvlKU9s
— Eric Weddle (@weddlesbeard) February 7, 2025

I couldn’t be more proud of this moment for Antonio Gates. Found him hooping in Kent Oh signed him to a FA contract w SD Chargers coached him 3 years and now a NFL Hall of Fame member!! I love and salute you Gatesy! God Bless my friend!! 🙏
— Tim Brewster (@TimBrewster) February 7, 2025

I am so happy for Eric Allen and Antonio Gates. Two great guys and now in the NFL HOF. Congratulations and well deserved!
— Wade Phillips (@sonofbum) February 7, 2025

Bout time Antonio gates got in🐐
— Simi Fehoko (@Simi_Fehoko) February 7, 2025

There isn’t a more humble human being. You just gotta be in the room with him to feel what I’m saying. If you have ever had the chance, you know EXACTLY what I’m talking about. Gates is a man of the people! Congrats Boy Boy!!! https://t.co/4hBDTWFXHw
— Kassim Osgood (@kassimosgood81) February 7, 2025

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