Less than a day after the Commanders came to terms with veteran tight end Zach Ertz to return for 2025, Adam Peters finished putting the tight end band back together. Reportedly,
According to Mike Garafolo and others, John Bates, who was drafted by the Washington Football team in the 4th round of the 2021 draft, has been given a 3-year extension. The contract value wasn’t immediately reported upon.
The #Commanders have agreed to terms with TE John Bates on a three-year deal, sources say.
A terrific blocker who has added 61 catches for 592 yards in four seasons in Washington, Bates returns alongside TE Zach Ertz, who re-upped with the team over the weekend. pic.twitter.com/qJbePugyES
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) March 10, 2025
Throughout his 4-year NFL career, Bates has been used more as a blocker than pass-catcher, though he has demonstrated pretty reliable hands and strong ability to get tough yards after the catch.
Washington re-signed TE John Bates to a 3-year deal, per source. A key signing for the Commanders. Bates' blocking ability, particularly in space vs. defensive ends, made him a key person to retain.
— John Keim (@john_keim) March 10, 2025
This move insures that the Commanders will have the same tight end room that they finished the ‘24 season with (Ertz, Bates, Sinnott, Yankoff), meaning that Adam Peters can focus on other priorities during the balance of free agency and April’s draft.
Other key roster moves:
Bobby Wagner - 1 year extension
Zach Ertz - 1 year extension
Zane Gonzalez - 1 year extension
Jonathan Allen - released
Deebo Samuel - acquired in trade from 49ers
Chris Rodriquez - tendered (ERFA)
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