Frustration is certainly warranted. Minter implemented his scheme around a hodgepodge of budget arrivals such as Poona Ford, with many of them going on to outplay their contracts or cost to acquire. He did have Khalil Mack, but Joey Bosa missed a chunk of the season with an injury and as he rounded into form, Mack battled an injury of his own.

The Chargers had one player who was a finalist for one of the major awards on Thursday night at NFL Honors. Running back J.K. Dobbins finished second in Comeback Player of the Year voting behind Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow.

Gates consistently provided key catches, especially on third downs, and served as a safety value for Chargers quarterbacks when plays went off script.

Gates, who caught 116 touchdown passes in a 16-year career spent entirely with the Chargers, is elected alongside defensive end Jared Allen, wide receiver Sterling Sharpe and cornerback Eric Allen.

Antonio Gates is the GOAT when it comes to the tight end position. To mark Gates’ induction in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, the Chargers are celebrating with a goat. Yes, an actual goat. Meet 'Gatesy the Goat,' who was named after the legendary Bolts tight end.