Posted on 08/18/2005 4:06:15 PM PDT by MikefromOhio
SAN DIEGO (AP) -- The San Diego Chargers told Antonio Gates Thursday that he will be suspended for three games, including the season opener against Dallas, if he doesn't end his holdout by Saturday afternoon.
In an attempt to break an impasse in negotiations for a multiyear deal, the Chargers sent Gates' agent, Andre Colona, a letter last Friday informing him of the ultimatum. If Gates isn't at camp by 12:30 p.m. Saturday, he will be suspended for the Chargers' final two exhibition games and the Sept. 11 home game against Dallas.
In order to avoid a suspension, the team told the All-Pro tight end that he will need to either sign a new multiyear deal or the $380,000, one-year contract he was tendered as an exclusive-rights free agent.
The two sides have been negotiating for a long-term deal since the middle of last season.
"We just can't agree on money and years," general manager A.J. Smith said Thursday. "We want to know where we're going."
Smith said the team is still open to negotiate, but it also needs to know if Gates is going to be part of the team."
(Excerpt) Read more at sportsillustrated.cnn.com ...
I have yet to turn down an offer for $380,000 a year. Maybe that's just me.
yeah me neither....
and all he has to do is stay in shape. travel and meals i think are paid by the team when on the road.
they are of course....
whiners these guys. especially t.o. now, Hines Ward had a legit gripe. he wasn't even in the top 40 for wr's and he was one of the top 10producers
well if you look at it that way, Gates was the 2nd best TE this past year.....
That said, I think that you should only be allowed to renegotiated prior to the final year of your contract (Hines Ward). If you just signed one last year, as TO did, you shouldnt be able to do hold out or anything prior to that....
CoolChange, welcome to the NFL ping list.
Guys, another update....
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