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The Chargers picked tight end Hunter Henry in the second round of the draft in a move that the team hopes can kill two birds with one stone.

In the long term, the Chargers would love it if Henry could step into the role that Antonio Gates has played on the offense since joining the team during the 2003 season. In the immediate future, Henry can fill the hole opened when No. 2 tight end Ladarius Green signed with the Steelers.

Henry worked out with quarterback Philip Rivers’ brother leading into the draft and Rivers said he expects Henry to handle that responsibility right off the bat.

“He’s going to be a guy that we’re going to need to come in and contribute right away and be out on the field on a lot of the stuff we do two tight-end wise,” Rivers said on The Mighty 1090 in San Diego. “I’m assuming he’s a sharp guy and I’ve seen him catch the ball. I don’t think he had a drop last year. I think he runs well enough, but he uses his body, finds ways to get open and catches the football. I think he’s going to be a key piece. He’ll be right in the mix once he gets out here.”

With Henry and free agent Travis Benjamin in the fold, the passing offense should have a different look next season. If all goes right, that duo plus Keenan Allen should be the core of a group that the Chargers hope will close out Rivers’ career on a high note.