The term is "valet-checked". You'll drop the bag typically at the end of the jetway, just before you board, and it will be delivered to the same spot at the other end.

"Gate-checked" means you turn it in at the gate podium, and it becomes standard checked baggage, returned on the carousel at the far end. This is a really bad idea for stuff that has to arrive with you (like meds or medical equipment).

I had AA once offer to gate-check my carryons at NRT. I almost went for it, until I realized what he'd said. I then firmly demurred and declined. My meds go with me.

At CLT, I've seen them return valet bags on the ramp right next to the airplane, on the rare occasion that they didn't use a jetway but just the built-in air stair on the airplane.

I see this on EVERY flight into and outta HSV. HSV is all-RJ all-the-time on AA.