Gates confirmed the suspension on his Twitter page and explained the situation in a long message.
MORE: AFC division predicitions | Don’t look for NFL’s marijuana stance to change soon
The Chargers released their own statement on the suspension.
“We are tremendously disappointed for our team and our fans as well as Antonio, but no more disappointed than Antonio is with himself. Antonio is a member of the Chargers’ family and we will continue to support him 100-percent. We have the utmost confidence he will stay in excellent shape for the season and be ready to go when he returns in Week 5. While it’s unfortunate to not have him to start the season, we have complete confidence our tight end group will continue to play at a high level.”
Gates has been a fixture at the tight end position for the Chargers since 2003. He’s made eight Pro Bowl teams since that time and has been one of the best at his position.
MORE: Gates doubles as boxing promoter
Promising tight end Ladarius Green will take over at tight end for San Diego in Gates’ absence.
Gates will miss games against Detroit, Cincinnati, Minnesota and Cleveland, returning Oct. 12 against the Steelers.
