San Diego Chargers tight end Antonio Gates will miss the final two exhibition games of the preseason as well as the season opener after continuing his holdout.

Gates did not want to accept the $380,000, one-year contract that the team tendered for him. If Gates holdout lasts any longer, he will miss Week 2 of the regular season as well.

"Obviously if Gates turns out missing the first game because of this, that's disappointing for everyone in this locker room because he is big part of our team and we don't want to see that happen," said quarterback Drew Brees, before the deadline passed.

TE Justin Peelle will become the teams starter for the opener. Peelle had 10 catches for 84 yards and two TDs last year.

Gates was one of the league's biggest surprises last year. He will be missed by the Chargers offense.