Antonio Gates Reveals Why Life After Football Feels Like ‘Heaven on Earth’
By Chukwudi Onyewuchi on September 27, 2025 at 4:30 PM EDT
The post-football world is often painted as quiet, reflective, and far removed from the spotlight, but for NFL Hall of Famer Antonio Gates, retirement has been nothing short of “heaven on earth.”
In a candid conversation on the "Doubl3 Coverage" podcast, hosted by superstar streamer N3on and Gen Z sports analyst Mystic Zach, Gates revealed the emotional high of his Hall of Fame induction and the new wave of success surrounding the rising podcast.
N3on And Mystic Zach Score Big With 'Doubl3 Coverage'
N3on and Mystic Zach have built more than just a sports podcast.
They have also crafted an arena where icons like Antonio Gates can relive their triumphs while fans witness authentic behind-the-scenes moments.
Gates, who tallied an incredible 955 receptions and 11,841 yards across his career, didn’t hold back about his Hall of Fame milestone. Calling it his “top day ever,” he shared how it allowed him to finally express gratitude.
“I was able to get on stage to thank everyone from high school all the way up to the professional level,” Gates said. “To see it come to light, there’s no better feeling than that.”
Antonio Gates Reflects On Life's Changes
For Gates, the induction into Canton wasn’t just another accolade but also transformational.
“It had been a really long 2025,” he admitted. “Words can’t describe how things change, how your life changes” after the honor.
The tight end emphasized how players often hear cheers and praise during their careers, but the Hall of Fame ceremony gave him the rare chance to speak directly to those who lifted him along the way.
He explained that while the NFL spotlight is bright, the opportunity to publicly thank coaches, mentors, and supporters across his journey carried unmatched weight.
“There’s no better feeling than that,” he told the hosts, underscoring how this recognition became the pinnacle of his career.
N3on on Building a Sports Show That Shocks the World
While Gates reflected on the past, N3on is keeping his eyes firmly on the future of "Double Coverage."
“There is so many great games to start football, it’s been unreal,” he shared in a chat with The Blast.
With his trademark energy, he hyped the show, adding, “DOUBL3 Coverage is the best sports show so tune in and lock in.”
The streamer didn’t stop there. He said, “I’m hyped to launch our new podcast and I’m ready to shock everyone with my knowledge and sports picking skills. I’ve got a great partner in my guy, Zach, and a sick lineup of guests. Doubl3 Coverage will be the No. 1 podcast soon.”
From giveaways to surprise guest appearances, N3on has been relentless in shaping the show into a weekly must-watch for fans.
He revealed, “We giving away winners every week and so excited about football right now.”
How N3on And Zach Took 'Doubl3 Coverage' Into the Top 10
The results have already spoken for themselves. In just its debut week, "Doubl3 Coverage" cracked the Top 10 Sports Podcasts on Apple, signaling that fans are buying into the hype.
The co-hosts are savoring the climb, with N3on even bringing his pup along to the set.
“Brought my dog to the set today to get some love from the Doubl3 Coverage team,” he told The Blast. “Good times today! Tune in because on today’s show, we had some amazing people on giving their formula for success.”
For Mystic Zach, the podcast’s early triumph has been surreal. “Reality hit me today when I saw us No. 8 on Apple,” he confessed. “Like, this show truly will be the best sports and entertainment show on the planet.”
Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube, "Doubl3 Coverage" is rolling out weekly episodes through September before settling into a twice-monthly rhythm.
With star power like Antonio Gates, N3on’s infectious energy, and Zach’s sharp sports knowledge, the show is on track to deliver exactly what its title promises: coverage that doubles down on entertainment and insight.
Mystic Zach Dishes On Teaming Up With N3on
In a previous chat with The Blast, Mystic Zach shared that the secret behind "Doubl3 Coverage" lies in the chemistry between him and his co-host.
“I’m happy about the support and engagement we have received so far from all the fans and listeners. Of course, I’ll be sharing my predictions and analysis of the biggest games, but this show is about more than picking wins.”
He added that he was excited to join forces with his friend N3on to bring a fresh perspective on sports, culture, and the events that influence them.
