What could be Antonio Gates' final season with the San Diego Chargers just got significantly shorter.
One of the most productive tight ends in NFL history and an eight-time Pro Bowler, Gates was suspended four games by the NFL on Thursday for violating its policy on performance-enhancing substances.
"In my 12 years in the NFL, I have taken tremendous pride in upholding the integrity of the NFL shield and all that it entails. I have taken extreme care of my body with a holistic approach, and I have never knowingly ingested a substance that was banned by the NFL," Gates said in a statement released by the Chargers.