San Diego Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers throws a pass to tight end Antonio Gates in the first half against the Kansas City Chiefs at Qualcomm Stadium. Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Los Angeles Chargers legends share hilarious Philip Rivers story

Originally posted on Los Angeles Chargers on SI
By Tyler Reed | Last updated Apr 5, 2025 6:30 AM ET

During his era, it would be hard to find someone who played the game harder than former Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers.

Rivers was known for his fiery attitude, but he had the talent to back it up. The Chargers' offense was always known as one of the more deadly units under Rivers.

One of Rivers' favorite targets, Antonio Gates, is finally getting his well-deserved moment, as he has been selected for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2025.

Recently, Gates shared a hilarious story about his quarterback, and the story is the perfect example of who Rivers was on the field.

Check out the clip below:

I keep telling people Phil might’ve been the most competitive person not player “person” I ever met in my life. https://t.co/GolsKH8fhY
— Shawne Merriman (@shawnemerriman) April 3, 2025

Even Rivers and Gates' former teammate Shawne Merriman had to comment on this hilarious story. "I keep telling people Phil might’ve been the most competitive person not player “person” I ever met in my life," wrote Merriman on his Twitter/X account.

There have long been legendary stories about Rivers' trash talk on the football field. It was never over the line, but just like the story Gates shared, it was just enough to get under the skin of the competition.

Rivers was the ultimate leader and the perfect quarterback to lead the Chargers during his tenure. The former Chargers quarterback may even hear his name among the greats in the Pro Football Hall of Fame one day.

This article first appeared on Los Angeles Chargers on SI and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: