- by foxnews
- 10 Nov 2025
Denise White, Gates' business manager, issued a statement dismissing reports linking the former NFL tight end to alleged mafia-backed poker schemes.
"Antonio Gates has not been involved nor has he been accused of any wrongdoing, assertions to the contrary are false and without merit. There will be no further comments on this matter," White, EAG Sports Management CEO, said in a statement released on Monday.
Meeks was among more than 30 individuals named in unsealed indictments last week. Gates' name was not listed in the federal documents.
Federal investigators accused Rozier of revealing privileged information about player availability, which was allegedly used to influence prop bets. Billups, the 2004 NBA Finals MVP, was allegedly linked to the organization and execution of complex illegal poker operations. Jones was also allegedly associated with the sophisticated scheme.
Investigators said the illegal operation was highly organized and targeted players under the guise of legitimacy. However, the games were structured in a way that prevented fair outcomes.
According to an FBI indictment, the illegal gambling ring had ties to the mafia.
During that time, he was named to eight Pro Bowls. He is the Chargers' receptions leader. He finished his standout career with 116 receiving touchdowns.
Gates' path to the NFL was unconventional. He elected to play basketball instead of football in college. He then went undrafted in 2003.
Gates is a member of the Chargers Hall of Fame.
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