Michael Irvin had high hopes for Antonio Gates, believing he would be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame on his first try. However, when the 2024 Hall of Fame Class was announced, Gates was not included. Despite this disappointment, Irvin, who himself was inducted on his third attempt, advises Gates to remain patient and maintain a positive attitude. Irvin shares his own experience, emphasizing that the joy of being inducted eventually outweighs the initial disappointment of not making it on the first ballot. Gates, who retired in 2018 after a remarkable 16-year career with the Chargers, achieved impressive stats, including 11,841 receiving yards, 955 catches, and 116 total touchdowns. He was also recognized as an eight-time Pro Bowler and a four-time First-Team All-Pro selection. Pro Football Reference’s Hall of Fame Monitor highlights that only three tight ends, Tony Gonzalez, Rob Gronkowski, and Travis Kelce, have had more illustrious careers than Gates. While a gold jacket is likely in Gates’ future, it may not happen as quickly as he or Irvin had anticipated. Irvin advises Gates not to let the disappointment overshadow the joy when his time eventually comes, urging him not to allow others to steal his moment twice.
According to the Source outkick.com