2. Tears flow with Rivers, LT
Gates mentioned numerous teammates during Saturday’s speech.
But the tears flowed when he got to Philip Rivers and LaDainian Tomlinson.
Gates first addressed Rivers, who received a standing ovation from the Bolt Fam in attendance.
“Philip Rivers, what we had on that football field was special,” Gates said. “You weren’t just a guy throwing the ball. You were the heartbeat on offense. Your fire, your passion, your IQ was unmatched.
“You saw the game the same way. You trusted me and I trusted you, and that trust led to some of the best moments of my career,” Gates added. “I always knew where that ball was going, Phil, and I always knew it was coming with a purpose. Philip Rivers, it was absolute pleasure have played with you.”
Rivers and Gates connected for 89 total touchdowns, which is the second-most by a quarterback-tight end duo in NFL history.
Rivers also become visibly emotional during Gates speech and told Chargers.com afterward that he couldn’t hold back the tears.
“He did a great job. What got him emotional, and what got me emotional, was him naming all his teammates,” Rivers said. “There were so many teammates and it’s the people that make it all so special.
“Our friendship, the trust we built, as he alluded to, was special. I feel like this is a special ending to his story. He finally wrote the final little bit for his book,” Rivers added.
Gates also carved out a special place in his speech for Tomlinson, who was on stage among the dozens of Hall of Famers.
“Of course, I’ve got to show love to one of the greatest to ever do it, one of the greatest football players to ever play,” Gates said. “LT, sharing that field with you was like watching poetry in motion. You set the standard, LT, not just for how you played, but how you prepared.
“I learned by just watching and every Sunday, I feel lucky to be on the same side as No. 21,” Gates added. “Thank you, LT, but not just because you’re a Hall of Fame player, because you’re a Hall of Fame teammate. I appreciate you always.”