Less than 24 hours after re-signing three-time Pro Bowler Zach Ertz, the Washington Commanders are returning another tight end from last season’s roster. According to Mike Garafolo of NFL Network, the Commanders came to terms with John Bates on a three-year deal.
There was speculation that Bates would have a market in free agency. The signing of Ertz on Saturday left Bates’ status with the team in limbo on the surface. However, the team worked out a reported three-year deal.
John Bates was a fourth-round draft pick of Washington in 2021 under the previous regime led by Ron Rivera. Interestingly, Bates was one of a handful of Rivera’s draft picks that remained on the Commanders’ roster in 2024 and contributed to their 12-win season.
Rivera dreadfully missed the mark with his four draft classes with Washington. The previous regime had 33 draft picks over four years. None of his 2020 draft picks are with the team, including second-overall pick Chase Young. Bates becomes just the second of the 2021 class to earn a second contract with Washington behind offensive guard Sam Cosmi.
The futures of Dyami Brown, Benjamin St-Juste, and Darrick Forrest remain in limbo. Bates and Cosmi could be a rare company after this off-season. Meanwhile, only four picks remain from 2022 and 2023 combined.
How John Bates fit into the Commanders new culture
Bates missed a mere game during his first four seasons in the league. He’s been primarily a TE2 in his time with Washington. Last season, Bates’ strength of run-blocking was highlighted more under new offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury. As a result, Bates had career lows with eight catches and 84 yards. However, his blocking ability in the run game kept him on the field for 516 offensive snaps.
Bates is locked for three years as Washington’s blocking tight end behind Ertz’s pass-catching. Bates’ return allows last year’s second-round draft pick Ben Sinnott more time to develop as Ertz’s eventual replacement.
The Commander’s front office has targeted re-signing potential free agents who have carved out a role in setting the team’s new winning culture. Where Ertz was a locker room leader and a key contributor to the development of star rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, Bates’ attitude and acceptance of the blocking role, his mindset allowed him to fit in under Kingsbury and first-year head coach Dan Quinn.
The Commanders are loading up with offensive weapons for Daniels, including trading for wide receiver Deebo Samuel to complement All-Pro wideout Terry McLaurin. Yet, Bates is just as huge with his ability to set the edge in the run game and chip block in passing.
That commitment landed John Bates a second NFL contract. Washington fended off other suitors as they yearn to return to the NFC Championship Game and beyond.
