After his impressive performance with the Bills down the stretch this past season, guard Ryan Bates was thought to be one of the most sought-after restricted free agents. It’s not surprising, then, that Brad Biggs of The Chicago Tribune reports (on Twitter) that he “intends to sign an offer sheet” from the Bears. 
Pro Football Network’s Aaron Wilson tweets that Bates is indeed signing with Chicago. As a result, the Bills now have five days to decide whether or not they will match the Bears’ offer. Bates, 25 was given an original-round tender of $2.433MM by Buffalo. Because he was a UDFA, however, the Bills would not receive any draft pick compensation should they decline to match (as opposed to, for instance, the second-round pick they would be in line for had they tendered him at just under $4MM).
Bates took over the starting left guard spot in Week 15 of the 2021 campaign, and held on to it for the remainder of the season. While his time as a starter was limited to that stretch, his play generated plenty of interest. It was reported last week that Chicago was among three teams – the others being the Vikings and Patriots – who met with the Penn State alum. It became clear early on in that process that an offer sheet was a distinct possibility.
Now, the Bills face a decision which wouldn’t have seemed likely after Bates’ first two (start-less) seasons in the NFL. Much of their next move will, of course, depend on the specifics of Chicago’s offer. In any event, this will remain a key storyline for both teams for the next few days.
Might be a sneaky move since the Bills are in salary cap space crunch…young, but only started a couple of games.
Depending on the details, I like the move for two reasons. First, it continues an attempt to improve a weakness and give Fields every chance to succeed. Second, it again shows that this new front office can close a deal with a somewhat coveted FA. More proof is needed in that regard when they are ready to land a big fish, but now is not that time. Next year with all that cap space is when we will get that answer.
I just wish they would add an above average left tackle, I don’t think Jenkins is that, I do think Jenkins could be a perfect RT which is where he excelled in college but pace and nagy constantly brought guys in to play them out of position
Agreed, as long as they don’t overpay. It is looking like WR and OT in draft in the first three picks, though I am sure one of those will be for best available if someone falls. Also, would not be surprised with a trade down to add another 4th or 5th. Good thing that this draft is considered deep at both of those positions.
Next year will tell the tale. Another year to evaluate Borom and Jenkins and for that matter, Fields. They’ll have a boatload of cap space and a clearer idea of who to throw a huge deal or two at.
Depending on the details, I like the move for two reasons. First, it continues an attempt to improve a weakness and give Fields every chance to succeed. Second, it again shows that this new front office can close a deal with a somewhat coveted FA. More proof is needed in that regard when they are ready to land a big fish, but now is not that time. Next year with all that cap space is when we will get that answer. So far, I am a fan of their approach to build the trenches with players with potential or on the rise, all while not overspending for older names and past production.
Bills may have a cap crunch but with the way they’ve loaded up I’m sure someone excited there would be interested to restructure for the shot at a SB. Heck or even cut someone like say Cody Ford. Can’t be all that much Chicago is signing Bates for. If it’s 10 plus mill though, we’ll enjoy the overpay
Bills don’t have much room. Doubt they match. Miller took up a huge chunk.
I like it. Go Bears.