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Fantasy Player Profile John Bates

  • John Bates
  • TE #87
  • John
    Bates
  • AActive
  • Manager: FA
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@MIN: #20 vs opposing TE - 13.93 FPA

News

  • Two catches vs. Denver

    Bates caught both of his targets for nine yards in Sunday night's 27-26 overtime loss to the Broncos.

    Analysis: Even with Zach Ertz's monster performance (10-106-0), Bates was still involved in the Commanders' passing attack during Sunday night's loss. The Boise State product has appeared in 10 games this season, catching eight of 12 targets for 71 yards. He's likely to remain a minimal component of Washington's offensive game plan in the Week 14 matchup against the Vikings.

    Published: Mon, Dec 1 at 10:18am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Logs 20 yards in blowout loss

    Bates caught two of four targets for 20 yards in Sunday's 38-14 loss to the Seahawks.

    Analysis: The Boise State product tallied season highs in targets and receptions during Sunday's loss, finishing with the fourth-most receiving yards on the Commanders. Bates has now recorded five catches for 56 yards through seven appearances in 2025. He's likely to remain Washington's No. 2 tight end and continue playing behind Zach Ertz during the Week 10 matchup against the Lions.

    Published: Mon, Nov 3 at 10:31am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Cleared to play vs. Seattle

    Bates (ankle) is active for Sunday's game against the Seahawks.

    Analysis: Bates was limited in the final two practices of Week 9 prep due to an ankle injury, but he's been cleared to play Sunday night after going through pregame warmups. Bates and Ben Sinnott will provide depth at tight end behind Zach Ertz.

    Published: Sun, Nov 2 at 4:10pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Nursing ankle injury

    Bates (ankle) was a limited participant in Friday's practice and is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Seahawks, John Keim of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Bates appeared on Thursday's injury report due to an ankle injury, which limited his participation in Friday's session. He's questionable to play Sunday, and his status may not be known until he goes through pregame warmups. With Colson Yankoff (hamstring) already ruled out for Week 9, the Commanders may elevate Lawrence Cager from the practice squad to provide tight end depth behind Zach Ertz and Ben Sinnott in the event that Bates is not cleared to play.

    Published: Fri, Oct 31 at 3:49pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Notches longest catch of season

    Bates recorded a 22-yard reception on his lone target in Monday's 28-7 loss to the Chiefs.

    Analysis: Bates' 22-yard catch-and-run in the second quarter was his longest gain since the 2023 campaign and tied for the third-biggest play of the night for a sputtering Commanders offense that finished with a season-low scoring total. The 27-year-old played 29 of the Commanders' 53 snaps on offense and has now cleared 50 percent snap shares in two straight weeks, but he'll continue to function mainly as a blocker while Zach Ertz serves as the team's top pass-catching tight end.

    Published: Tue, Oct 28 at 1:45pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Logs full practice Friday

    Bates (shoulder) was a full participant in Friday's practice.

    Analysis: Bates likely tweaked his shoulder during the Commanders' Week 5 win over the Chargers. He opened the week as a limited practice participant Thursday, but his ability to participate without restrictions Friday indicates that he should be good to go against the Bears on Monday. Bates played 41 snaps (30 on offense, 11 on special teams) and caught his first pass of the regular season for nine yards in Week 5.

    Published: Fri, Oct 10 at 4:33pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Pops up as limited Thursday

    Bates (shoulder) was limited in Thursday's practice.

    Analysis: It's a new injury for the Commanders' tight end after he recently dealt with a groin issue that caused him to miss Weeks 3 and 4 before returning to the lineup last Sunday against the Chargers. When healthy, Bates has been playing roughly 50 percent of the offensive snaps, but he has just one catch for nine yards on the season.

    Published: Thu, Oct 9 at 4:24pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • All set for Week 5

    Bates (groin) was a full participant at practice Wednesday.

    Analysis: Bates has been sidelined for each of the team's last two games due to a groin injury, but he now appears to be ready to return to action in Week 5. The 27-year-old will be back in his role as a top reserve option behind Zach Ertz at tight end versus the Chargers on Sunday.

    Published: Wed, Oct 1 at 4:17pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Ruled out

    Bates (groin) has been ruled out for Sunday's game at Atlanta, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: Bates hasn't practiced the past two weeks and will now miss a second straight game. Ben Sinnott figures to step up as the No. 2 tight end again, with playing time largely depending on the gameplan (and then game script).

    Published: Fri, Sep 26 at 9:53am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Still dealing with groin issue

    Bates (groin) did not participate at practice Wednesday.

    Analysis: Bates has not practiced since suffering a groin injury in Week 2 at Green Bay, and his availability for Week 4 is now in question. He'll probably have to return to practice in some capacity Thursday or Friday to have any chance to play Sunday at Atlanta.

    Published: Wed, Sep 24 at 4:37pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Ruled out for Week 3

    Bates (groin) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Raiders, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: Bates suffered a groin injury in Washington's Week 2 loss to the Packers on Sept. 11 and was unable to practice at all this week before being ruled out. He played regularly as a blocking tight end, but his absence won't change the team's target distribution.

    Published: Fri, Sep 19 at 5:17pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Misses practice

    Bates (groin) did not practice Wednesday.

    Analysis: Bates was injured in the first half of last Thursday night's loss to the Packers, and coach Dan Quinn said Monday that Bates is a "long shot" to play in Week 3 against the Raiders. Ben Sinnott and Colson Yankoff are next up at tight end behind starter Zach Ertz.

    Published: Wed, Sep 17 at 3:55pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Unlikely to play Week 3

    Commanders head coach Dan Quinn said Monday that Bates (groin) is a "long shot" to play Sunday versus Las Vegas, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: Bates was injured in the second quarter in Thursday's loss to the Packers. Though he will have had extended time to recover, it doesn't appear the veteran tight end will be able to suit up Sunday. Ben Sinnott and Colson Yankoff could both see more snaps than usual against the Raiders, though Zach Ertz -- who logged 89 percent of Washington's defensive snaps Week 2 -- will likely continue to carry a heavy workload as the team's top tight end.

    Published: Mon, Sep 15 at 4:28pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Done for night

    Bates (groin) has been ruled out for remainder of Thursday's contest against the Packers.

    Analysis: Bates suffered a groin injury in the first half, and he will now be forced to sit out the rest of the game. In his place, Ben Sinnott will likely continue to see an increase in workload at tight end.

    Published: Thu, Sep 11 at 7:20pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Questionable to return Thursday

    Bates (groin) is questionable to return to Thursday's contest in Green Bay.

    Analysis: Bates picked up an apparent groin injury in the second quarter, placing some doubt on his ability to return to the contest. The tight end was operating as the top reserve option behind starter Zach Ertz, and in his absence, Ben Sinnott will likely see an increase in workload.

    Published: Thu, Sep 11 at 6:51pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Resting Saturday

    Bates won't play in Saturday's preseason game against Baltimore, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: The Commanders are resting most of the players with secure roles -- a group that includes Bates, but apparently not fellow tight end Ben Sinnott (a 2024 second-round pick). Zach Ertz is also resting in anticipation of being the team's top receiving threat at tight end, while Bates figures to continue in his familiar role as a blocking-focused No. 2 TE when Washington open the regular season against the Giants on Sun., Sept. 7.

    Published: Sat, Aug 23 at 7:48am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Signs new deal with Washington

    Bates and the Commanders agreed on a three-year contract Sunday, Mike Garafolo of NFL Network reports.

    Analysis: Bates will remain in Washington ahead of the 2025 campaign. The tight end caught eight of 13 targets for 84 yards in 2024, his lowest totals in both categories over his four seasons in the NFL. Bates will compete with Ben Sinnott for the No. 2 spot at tight end behind Zach Ertz on the depth chart in 2025.

    Published: Sun, Mar 9 at 7:35pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Adds three catches in playoffs

    Bates caught eight of 13 passes for 84 yards during the 2024 regular season, then added three catches for 31 yards on four targets in the playoffs.

    Analysis: Bates has been Washington's No. 2 tight end ever since the team took him in the fourth round of the 2021 NFL Draft. He's always been more of a blocker than pass catcher, and it's possible he finds a new home now that he's completed his rookie contract. TE Zach Ertz is also scheduled for free agency, but Bates is unlikely to have a major receiving role even if he re-signs with the Commanders while Ertz moves on.

    Published: Tue, Jan 28 at 7:27am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Ready for Sunday

    Bates (shoulder) was a limited participant in practice Friday and does not carry an injury designation for Sunday's NFC Championship Game against the Eagles.

    Analysis: Bates has dealt with a shoulder injury throughout the postseason, but his availability hasn't yet been impacted. He secured one of two targets for 20 yards during the team's divisional-round win over Detroit while working behind Zach Ertz at the tight end position.

    Published: Fri, Jan 24 at 1:40pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Nursing shoulder injury

    Bates (shoulder) was a limited participant in Thursday's practice.

    Analysis: Bates entered the postseason nursing a shoulder injury, but it didn't prevent him from playing in the Commanders' first two playoff games. He played 85 snaps (70 on offense, 15 on special teams) over those two contests and caught one pass (on three targets) for 20 yards while serving as Washington's backup tight end behind Zach Ertz. Bates' limited participation Thursday is likely to prevent an aggravation of his shoulder injury, and he should be able to play in Sunday's NFC Championship Game…read more

    Published: Thu, Jan 23 at 2:23pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Cleared for wild-card round

    Bates (shoulder) was limited in practice Friday but does not carry an injury designation for Sunday's road NFC wild-card round matchup against the Buccaneers.

    Analysis: Bates began the week as a full participant in practice, and despite then downgrading to back-to-back limited sessions, he's been cleared to suit up Sunday on the road at Tampa Bay. The depth tight end suited up for all 17 regular-season games with Washington, securing eight of 13 targets for 84 yards.

    Published: Fri, Jan 10 at 1:52pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Working through shoulder issue

    Bates (shoulder) was a limited participant in Thursday's practice.

    Analysis: Bates' limited participation in pracitce could be out of precaution after he logged a full practice Wednesday. Friday's practice report and subsequent injury designation will provide more clarity on Bates' status heading into Sunday's NFC wild-card round game against the Buccaneers. Bates has primarily been used as an extra blocker for the Commanders but managed to log eight catches (on 13 targets) for 84 yards across 17 regular-season games while operating as Zach Ertz's backup.

    Published: Thu, Jan 9 at 2:17pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Makes short catch in Week 15

    Bates played 42 of the Commanders' 78 snaps on offense and hauled in his lone target for a six-yard reception in Sunday's 20-19 win over the Saints.

    Analysis: Bates and fellow reserve tight end Ben Sinnott (42 snaps, 1-7-0 receiving line on one target) turned in nearly identical lines in Week 15 in terms of both playing time and production, with both seeing their roles expand after starter Zach Ertz (concussion) left the game early. If Ertz can't clear concussion protocol ahead of Sunday's game against the Eagles, another near-even timeshare at tight end between Bates and Sinnott could be in the offing. Sinnott profiles as the more fantasy-friendly…read more

    Published: Wed, Dec 18 at 9:15am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Two catches vs. Philadelphia

    Bates caught two passes on three targets for 17 yards during Thursday's 26-18 loss to the Commanders.

    Analysis: Bates had gone catchless the last two games, but he finished Thursday's game third in both receptions and receiving yards behind Austin Ekeler (eight catches for 89 yards) and Zach Ertz (six receptions for 47 yards). Bates played on just 30 percent of the Commanders' offensive snaps, and he's been hovering around that rate as he operates as the Commanders' No. 2 tight end behind Ertz and ahead of Ben Sinnott. Through 11 regular-season games, Bates has played 295 snaps on offense and accumulated…read more

    Published: Fri, Nov 15 at 6:57pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Goes catchless in second straight

    Bates failed to draw a target while playing 21 of the Commanders' 59 snaps on offense in Sunday's 30-23 loss to the Ravens.

    Analysis: Bates' 36 percent snap share was his second-lowest rate of the season while the Commanders leaned more heavily on No. 1 tight end Zach Ertz (80 percent share) and made less frequent use of two-tight-end formations. The 26-year-old still remains clearly ahead of rookie second-round pick Ben Sinnott on the depth chart, but Bates continues to function mostly as a blocker whenever he's on the field. Bates has been targeted just three times across his 173 snaps on offense in 2024.

    Published: Mon, Oct 14 at 9:56am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Serving as No. 2 tight end

    Bates played 25 of the Commanders' 72 snaps on offense in Sunday's 21-18 win over the Giants and reeled in his lone target for a five-yard reception.

    Analysis: Bates has worked ahead of rookie second-round draft pick Ben Sinnott in both of the Commanders' first two games, but the presence of veteran Zach Ertz has kept Bates from playing more than half of the snaps on offense in either contest. If the Commanders fade from playoff contention, Ertz could take on a lesser role, but the coaching staff may be more inclined to expand Sinnott's playing time rather than taking a longer look at Bates. Through his first three seasons in the league, Bates didn't…read more

    Published: Thu, Sep 19 at 1:08pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Catches two passes from Daniels

    Bates caught both of his targets for 20 yards in Saturday's 13-6 preseason loss to Miami.

    Analysis: Both receptions came from QB Jayden Daniels, with Bates making the start and playing nearly all the first-team snaps for a second straight week. The fourth-year pro is unlikely to have an every-down role once the regular season begins, but it does seem Bates will start the year ahead of rookie second-round pick Ben Sinnott, serving as the blocking/inline tight end in a timeshare with Zach Ertz. It may not be long before Sinnott pushes for more snaps, however.

    Published: Mon, Aug 19 at 7:24am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Catches 19 passes in 2023

    Bates caught 19 of 28 passes for 151 yards in 17 games during the 2023 season.

    Analysis: The 2021 fourth-round pick has finished each of his three pro seasons with between 22 and 28 targets and 14 and 20 receptions, and around 500 snaps. Bates hasn't shown the pass-catching chops to make a fantasy impact, and he now faces some uncertainty entering the final year of his rookie contract as the Commanders bring in a new coaching staff.

    Published: Tue, Jan 23 at 8:32am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Pass-catching role trending down

    Bates failed to corral his lone target while playing 25 of the Commanders' 55 snaps on offense in Sunday's 45-15 loss to the Dolphins.

    Analysis: Bates has now been held without a reception over Washington's past two contests, after having previously produced a 7-48-0 receiving line on nine targets over the preceding five games. The third-year player continues to see snap shares over 40 percent most weeks, but he looks as though he'll function mainly as a blocker on the field while Logan Thomas operates as Washington's top pass-catching tight end.

    Published: Thu, Dec 7 at 7:51am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Draws no targets Week 6

    Bates went without a target across 20 snaps on offense Sunday in the Commanders' 24-16 win over the Falcons.

    Analysis: Quarterback Sam Howell didn't look to involve his tight ends in Week 6, as the trio of Logan Thomas, Bates and Cole Turner combined for just one target across 69 offensive snaps. Thomas continues to dominate the playing time among the position group, and so long as he's healthy, Bates will be in store for a minor role. In the four games that Thomas has played without exiting early due to injury, Bates has drawn just three total targets.

    Published: Tue, Oct 17 at 8:53am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Catches both targets

    Bates caught both his targets for 19 yards in Thursday's 40-20 loss to Chicago.

    Analysis: Bates mostly works as a blocker even when starting tight end Logan Thomas misses time, with Cole Turner being the replacement on passing downs. Thomas played in this one and led the team with a 9-77-1 receiving line, as Sam Howell continues to pepper his TEs with short targets over the middle and in the flats.

    Published: Mon, Oct 9 at 7:36am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Quiet in loss

    Bates caught his only target for six yards in Sunday's 34-31 overtime loss to the Eagles.

    Analysis: Operating as the Commanders' No. 2 tight end, Bates was not a big part of the game plan Sunday. The veteran played just 27 of Washington's 78 offensive snaps, far behind starter Logan Thomas who returned from a concussion and played 62 snaps in the contest. With Thomas healthy, Bates should remain far off the fantasy radar heading into a Week 5 matchup with the Bears.

    Published: Wed, Oct 4 at 2:12am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Targeted twice

    Bates caught both of his targets for 12 yards in Sunday's 37-3 loss to Buffalo.

    Analysis: Bates took 57 percent of snaps on offense, the same as Cole Turner, who finished with a 3-35-0 receiving line on a team-high seven targets. There's not much fantasy appeal with Bates for Week 4 at Philadelphia, as he'll be the blocking-focused TE in a timeshare even if Logan Thomas (concussion) misses another game.

    Published: Mon, Sep 25 at 2:53pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Helps replace Logan Thomas

    Bates caught three of five targets for a career-high 46 yards in Sunday's 35-33 win over the Broncos.

    Analysis: Bates and Cole Turner shared TE snaps after Logan Thomas left with a concussion late in the second quarter. Turner is known more as a pass catcher and Bates as a blocker, but it was the latter who surprisingly drew five targets on 18 routes and finished with a career high for receiving yards. Neither Bates nor Turner will make for a trustworthy fantasy option if Thomas misses Week 3 against the Bills.

    Published: Mon, Sep 18 at 12:55pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Held catchless

    Bates finished with one target and no receptions in Monday's preseason win over Baltimore.

    Analysis: With Logan Thomas (calf) sidelined, Cole Turner worked as the primary tight end on the first-team offense, while Bates played a few snaps and mostly blocked. There's not much hope for significant receiving production, but Bates at least figures to have a blocking role for the third straight year since Washington made him a fourth-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft.

    Published: Tue, Aug 22 at 7:10am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Quiet second season

    Bates finished the 2022 season with 14 catches for 108 yards and a touchdown on 22 targets in 16 games.

    Analysis: The 2021 fourth-round pick mostly served as a blocker, playing no fewer than 20 offensive snaps and no more than 45 in his 16 appearances. Bates had 249 receiving yards as a rookie and could perhaps have a larger role in 2023, but he'll likely always be used as a blocker first and foremost, given his 6-6, 259-pound frame and lack of speed.

    Published: Mon, Jan 16 at 9:30am by Rotowire.com
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  • Blanked on stat sheet

    Bates was not targeted in Sunday's 20-20 tie against the Giants.

    Analysis: Bates played 45 of the team's offensive snaps, but he failed to tally any stats. It was just the third time in 12 contests the second-year pro failed to see a target, and the sixth time he's gone without a reception. After a Week 14 bye, Bates will work to get on the stat sheet Week 15 in a rematch with the Giants.

    Published: Tue, Dec 6 at 5:05pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Scores second NFL touchdown

    Bates caught three of four targets for 24 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 19-13 win over Atlanta.

    Analysis: Bates handled his usual role as Washington's in-line tight end, though it came with more snaps (58 percent) than usual in a run-heavy contest. Logan Thomas still ran most of the routes and got most of the snaps on passing downs, so Bates isn't a great bet to repeat the production Week 13 against the Giants.

    Published: Mon, Nov 28 at 12:58pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Serves primarily as blocker Week 10

    Bates failed to draw a target during Monday's 32-21 win over the Eagles.

    Analysis: Bates was on the field for 41 of Washington's 83 snaps on offense in the upset victory, with his 49 percent share representing his highest mark since Week 5. It's worth noting that Bates ran just eight routes on the night, as the Commanders implemented a run-heavy game plan that often featured Bates sharing the field with top tight end Logan Thomas. On the occasions the Commanders are looking to pass, Thomas is still expected to rank ahead of Bates as the team's preferred option at tight end.

    Published: Wed, Nov 16 at 9:20am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Catches one pass

    Bates caught one of two targets for five yards in Sunday's 20-17 loss to the Vikings.

    Analysis: Logan Thomas hasn't caught a pass in two games since returning from a calf injury, but he did play well over half the snaps in both contests, while Bates has clocked in somewhere in the 30s the past three weeks (39 percent share in Sunday's loss). Any hope for fantasy value depends on Thomas missing time, and even then the Commanders seem to prefer Cole Turner over Bates in passing situations. More than a target or two is unlikely Week 10 at the Eagles.

    Published: Mon, Nov 7 at 2:09pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Targeted once

    Bates played 33 percent of offensive snaps and caught his lone target for a six-yard gain in a 17-16 win over Indianapolis on Sunday.

    Analysis: Bates finished third among the Washington tight ends in snap share with Logan Thomas returning from a three-game absence. All three were bunched fairly close together, with Thomas at 56 percent and Armani Rogers at 36 percent. Bates is probably the least intersting from a fantasy standpoint, as he ran the fewest routes and spent most of his afternoon blocking. He's unlikely to see more than a target or two Week 9 against the Vikings.

    Published: Mon, Oct 31 at 6:33am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Not targeted in win

    Bates wasn't targeted Sunday against the Packers, playing 23 snaps on offense (31 percent) in a 23-21 win.

    Analysis: Armani Rogers led the TEs with a 51 percent snap share and three catches, while Cole Turner was targeted twice (both incomplete) before leaving with a concussion. Bates was listed as questionable after missing the previous game with a hamstring injury, and it's possible that contributed to his diminished role relative to previous games that Logan Thomas (calf) has missed. It's possible all three of Thomas, Bates and Turner show up on the Week 8 injury report ahead of a road game against the…read more

    Published: Mon, Oct 24 at 11:24am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Back against Packers

    Bates (hamstring) is active Week 7 against Green Bay.

    Analysis: The Commanders were without both Bates and Logan Thomas (calf) last week against Chicago, and while Thomas remains inactive, Bates will be back in action. The last time Thomas was out and Bates was active -- Week 5 against Tennessee -- Bates led the position group with a 58.6 percent snap share, though he was targeted only three times in that contest.

    Published: Sun, Oct 23 at 8:40am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Possible game-time call

    Bates (hamstring) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against Green Bay, John Keim of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Coach Ron Rivera told reporters Bates had a good day of practice Friday and has a chance to play heading into the weekend. With Logan Thomas (calf) out for a third straight game and Bates in danger of a second consecutive absence, rookie Cole Turner could have another shot at extended playing time, though Rivera also mentioned using FB Alex Armah more. Last week, Bates injured his hamstring in pregame warmups, which was too late for the Commanders to alter their plans for which players would be…read more

    Published: Fri, Oct 21 at 9:54am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Sitting Thursday

    Bates (hamstring) did not practice Thursday, ESPN's John Keim reports.

    Analysis: Bates missed Wednesday's practice as well, meaning his availability for Week 7 is in substantial question going into Friday's practice. He suffered the injury shortly before Washington's Thursday game in Week 6, so he's been out for one week at this point. If Bates can't play against Green Bay on Sunday then Washington might need to rely on Cole Turner and Armani Rogers again, though neither has the blocking ability that Bates normally provides.

    Published: Thu, Oct 20 at 11:20am by Rotowire.com
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  • Still bothered by hammy

    Bates (hamstring) isn't practicing Wednesday, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: Bates hurt his hamstring during pregame warmups last Thursday, allowing rookie Cole Turner to play 93 percent of the snaps on offense in a win over Chicago. With both Bates and Logan Thomas (calf) missing practice to start the week, Turner could have another big opportunity this Sunday against the Packers while catching passes from Taylor Heinicke, who will step in under center for injured starting quarterback Carson Wentz (finger).

    Published: Wed, Oct 19 at 10:32am by Rotowire.com
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  • Doesn't log any snaps Thursday

    Bates (hamstring) didn't play any snaps in Thursday's game against the Bears.

    Analysis: Bates injured his hamstring in pregame warmups, leaving the Commanders with Cole Turner and Armani Rogers at tight end. The week before, Bates and Turner had worked in tandem with Logan Thomas (calf) inactive, drawing three targets apiece. Turner played 93 percent of offensive snaps in Thursday's win over the Bears, and he could have a similar role Week 7 against Green Bay if neither Thomas nor Bates is ready to play. The TE spot in Washington hasn't provided much production this year, with a…read more

    Published: Fri, Oct 14 at 6:42am by Rotowire.com
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  • Suffers injury during warmups

    Bates suffered a hamstring injury during warmups prior to Thursday's game against the Bears, Ivan Lambert of USA Today reports.

    Analysis: Bates was expected to fill in as the Commanders' starting tight end with Logan Thomas (calf) sidelined. He had tallied seven receptions combined across his last two games, but with Bates dealing with a hamstring injury, Cole Turner was next up for the team's TE snaps versus Chicago on Thursday.

    Published: Thu, Oct 13 at 5:20pm by Rotowire.com
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  • Could start Thursday

    Bates could make another start Thursday against the Bears with fellow tight end Logan Thomas (calf) ruled out for a second straight game.

    Analysis: Bates handled a three-down role a few times late last season when Thomas was out, but in the Week 5 loss to the Titans, the Commanders often subbed in Cole Turner for obvious passing situations. As a result, Bates was limited to playing 59 percent of snaps, though he reeled in his three targets for 39 yards. Meanwhile, Turner finished without a catch on three targets and 32 snaps (51 percent).

    Published: Wed, Oct 12 at 2:36pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Catches three passes in start

    Bates caught each of his three targets for 39 yards in Sunday's 21-17 loss to Tennessee.

    Analysis: Bates filled in for Logan Thomas (calf) as the starter but played only 59 percent of snaps, slightly more than third-string TE Cole Turner, who logged 51 percent and finished without a catch on three targets. Turner got a lot of the playing time in obvious passing situations in his NFL debut, and he might get that chance again Week 6 against the Bears if Thomas isn't ready.

    Published: Mon, Oct 10 at 10:54am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Racks up 19 receiving yards

    Bates secured four of six targets for 19 yards during the Commanders' 25-10 loss to the Cowboys on Sunday.

    Analysis: Bates has struggled to get involved in Washington's passing game early in the 2022 campaign, but he drew a season-high six targets Week 4 and was tied with starting tight end Logan Thomas in terms of receiving yards. In spite of Bates' increased involvement Sunday, the 2021 fourth-rounder has been an unreliable fantasy option early this season.

    Published: Mon, Oct 3 at 11:46am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Stuck behind Thomas

    Bates caught two of three targets for 15 yards in Sunday's 36-27 loss to the Lions, playing 32 percent of snaps on offense.

    Analysis: Bates saw more snaps Week 1 (55 percent) but was targeted just once. He's unlikely to see many passes as the No. 2 tight end behind Logan Thomas, who played 62 and 73 percent of snaps the first two weeks (with 11 targets) after suffering an ACL tear in the middle of last season. With Thomas seemingly healthy, Bates figures to handle a minor role again Week 3 against the Eagles.

    Published: Mon, Sep 19 at 8:16am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • No limitations in practice

    Bates (calf) was a full practice participant Wednesday, John Keim of ESPN.com reports.

    Analysis: Bates missed most of the summer but now has a decent shot at the Week 1 start. Fellow tight end Logan Thomas (knee), who is working his way back from a torn ACL, was a limited participant Wednesday and said earlier this week that he hoped to be ready for the first or second game of the season. Even if Thomas suits up for the opener against Jacksonville, the 31-year-old isn't likely to jump right back into his three-down role of years past.

    Published: Wed, Sep 7 at 10:40am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Expected back at practice

    Bates (calf) could return to practice this week, Michael Phillips of the Richmond Times-Dispatch reports.

    Analysis: Head coach Ron Rivera said Saturday that he expects Bates back at practice in the coming days. The 31-year-old may even enter Week 1 as the starting tight end as Logan Thomas (knee) has yet to return to full participation at practice.

    Published: Sat, Aug 27 at 9:26pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Won't play Saturday

    Bates (calf) will not play in Saturday's preseason game against Kansas City, Sam Fortier of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: Bates is one of three tight ends ruled out for Washington, leaving Armani Rogers and Eli Wolf as the team's healthy options this Saturday.

    Published: Sat, Aug 20 at 11:37am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Bothered by calf

    Bates (calf) is on a side field at Monday's practice, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.

    Analysis: The second-year tight end missed some time earlier in camp but then returned to action last week. He was held out of the Commanders' preseason opener, however, allowing Armani Rogers and Curtis Hodges to get the first-team work at tight end. Bates is the probable Week 1 starter in the likely event Logan Thomas (ACL) isn't ready, though none of the Washington tight ends looks especially appealing for fantasy purposes. Bates was a fourth-round pick last year, and while he did get involved in the…read more

    Published: Mon, Aug 15 at 11:45am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Finishes year with key role

    Bates finished his 2021 rookie campaign with 20 catches for 249 yards and a touchdown on 25 targets, starting eight of 17 games.

    Analysis: The fourth-round pick never missed a game, but it wasn't until Week 10 that he saw more than 17 snaps or one target in a contest. From that point on, he played over half of Washington's snaps in each game, averaging 2.0 catches for 26.4 yards on 2.6 targets over the final nine games of the season. Bates may fall back to a reserve role in his second year, however, as Logan Thomas' season-ending ACL injury was a big factor in the rookie taking so many snaps. That could leave Bates as Washington's…read more

    Published: Thu, Jan 13 at 7:04am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Steps into increased role

    Bates recorded three receptions on four targets for 35 yards in Sunday's 20-16 loss to Philadelphia.

    Analysis: Bates took over the primary tight-end duties in Washington after Ricky Seals-Jones exited the game early with a neck injury. He took advantage by matching his season highs with three receptions and four targets. It's possible that Seals-Jones is held out of Washington's Week 18 matchup against the Giants, meaning Bates could be in position to rack up multiple receptions again to close the campaign.

    Published: Sun, Jan 2 at 9:19pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Scores TD

    Bates caught two of three targets for 45 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 56-14 loss at Dallas.

    Analysis: Bates technically recovered his own fumble in the end zone, cutting the deficit to 42 points late in the fourth quarter. He played 75 percent of offensive snaps in the contest, while pass-catching specialist Ricky Seals-Jones took only 45 percent and finished with a loss of four yards on his lone reception.

    Published: Mon, Dec 27 at 5:33am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Washington-Eagles moved to Tuesday

    Bates and Washington will no longer play the Eagles on Sunday, after the NFL officially rescheduled the matchup between the two teams for Tuesday at 7 p.m. ET.

    Analysis: Due to ongoing COVID-19-related issues within Washington's organization, the NFL is hopeful that by delaying the game two days, the Football Team will restore enough players from the reserve/COVID-19 list to alleviate depth concerns on the roster.

    Published: Fri, Dec 17 at 1:57pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • One catch in loss

    Bates caught one of his two targets for 19 yards during Sunday's 27-20 loss to the Cowboys.

    Analysis: With Logan Thomas (knee) on injured reserve, Bates operated as the No. 2 tight end behind Ricky Seals-Jones. Seals-Jones saw two more targets than Bates, but the latter out-gained the former 19-8. Over his last four games, Bates has caught 11 of 13 targets for 124 yards, but barring his first touchdown of the season, the rookie fourth-round pick doesn't garner much fantasy potential heading into Week 15.

    Published: Tue, Dec 14 at 12:14pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Moves up depth chart

    Bates caught three of four targets for 42 yards in Sunday's 17-15 win over the Raiders, while teammate Logan Thomas (knee) suffered a likely season-ending injury, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

    Analysis: It's been a rough year health-wise for Washington tight ends -- Thomas previously missing six games due to a hamstring injury, while backup Ricky Seals-Jones has now missed three in a row with a hip issue. Seals-Jones filled an every-down role the first time Thomas was out, until his hip injury put Bates on the spot in a similar role Week 11 at Carolina. The rookie caught each of his three targets for 23 yards in that game, playing 99 percent of snaps before handing the job back to Thomas the…read more

    Published: Mon, Dec 6 at 7:01am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Catches three passes

    Bates caught each of his three targets for 23 yards in Sunday's 27-21 win over the Panthers.

    Analysis: Bates operated as the Washington's No. 1 tight end Sunday with Ricky Seals-Jones (hip) sidelined and Logan Thomas (hamstring) still on injured reserve. The rookie played all but one of the team's offensive snaps, and his three catches were the second-highest total for any Washington pass catcher. With Thomas nearing his return and Seals-Jones also having a shot to play Week 12 against the Seahawks, Bates may be in store for just a one-game run as Washington's starting tight end.

    Published: Wed, Nov 24 at 5:41am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Likely to act as top tight end

    Bates is expected to serve as Washington's starting tight end Sunday against the Panthers with Ricky Seals-Jones (hip) ruled out for the contest and Logan Thomas (hamstring) still on injured reserve, Pete Hailey of NBC Sports Washington reports.

    Analysis: After Seals-Jones exited early in last week's upset win over the Buccaneers, Bates stepped in to play a career-high 63 percent of the Football Team's offensive snaps. Though he didn't fill a high-volume role in the passing game, the rookie made good on his limited opportunities, reeling in all three of his targets for 25 yards. Bates profiles as a low-end starter at tight end for deep-league lineups in Week 11.

    Published: Fri, Nov 19 at 9:59am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Fills in for Seals-Jones

    Bates caught each of his three targets for 25 yards in Sunday's 29-19 win over Tampa Bay, playing a career-high 47 snaps due to Ricky Seals-Jones' hip injury.

    Analysis: A rookie fourth-round pick, Bates has now climbed from third to first on the depth chart with Seals-Jones joining starter Logan Thomas (IR/hamstring) on the shelf. However, it isn't clear if Seals-Jones' hip injury is serious, nor is it certain that Thomas will miss additional time beyond Week 10. Bates was timed at 4.84 in the 40-yard dash and never reached even 300 yards in a season at Boise State, suggesting his receiving contributions won't match Seals-Jones' recent performance even if the…read more

    Published: Mon, Nov 15 at 7:04am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Records first NFL catch

    Bates caught his only target for a seven-yard gain in Sunday's 31-13 loss to Kansas City, registering his first regular-season NFL reception.

    Analysis: The rookie fourth-round pick has seen just one target in two games since starting tight end Logan Thomas (hamstring) was placed on injured reserve. Ricky Seals-Jones has replaced Thomas in a three-down role, while Bates remains limited to blocking for the most part. He doesn't figure to see more than a target or two Week 7 at Green Bay.

    Published: Mon, Oct 18 at 12:50am by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
  • Stepping into No. 2 role

    Bates will operate as Washington's No. 2 tight end behind Ricky Seals-Jones while Logan Thomas (hamstring) is on injured reserve, Pete Hailey of NBC Sports Washington reports.

    Analysis: Bates played only four offensive snaps across the first three games of the season, but he logged 14 plays from scrimmage during Sunday's win over the Falcons with Thomas going down with the injury. Bates, a rookie fourth-round pick, has yet to be targeted in the passing game and is unlikely to have much fantasy relevance.

    Published: Thu, Oct 7 at 2:32pm by Rotowire.com
    More news and analysis available atNFL.com
More news and analysis available at NFL.com
2025 Fantasy Stats
  RushingReceivingFumFantasy
WkOppYdsTDYdsTDLostPts
1NYG,
W 21-6
-----0.00
2@GB,
L 18-27
-----0.00
3LV,
W 41-24
-----0.00
4@ATL,
L 27-34
-----0.00
5@LAC,
W 27-10
--9--1.90
6CHI,
L 24-25
-----0.00
7@DAL,
L 22-44
--5--1.50
8@KC,
L 7-28
--22--3.20
9SEA,
L 14-38
--20--4.00
10DET,
L 22-44
--6--1.60
11@MIA,
L 13-16
-----0.00
12Bye-----0.00
13DEN,
L 26-27
--9--2.90
14@MIN,
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
-----0.00
15@NYG,
Sun 10:00 amGet Tickets
-----0.00
16PHI,
Sat 2:00 pmGet Tickets
-----0.00
17DAL,
Thu 10:00 amGet Tickets
-----0.00
18@PHI,
TBDGet Tickets
-----0.00
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John Bates
TE #87 WAS | Manager: FA
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