John Bates

John Bates, an accomplished NFL player, serves as a tight end for the Washington Commanders. Born on November 6, 1997, in Nyssa, Oregon, Bates honed his skills at Lebanon High School before pursuing his college career at Boise State. He was drafted by the Commanders in the 4th round of the 2021 NFL Draft, selected 124th overall. Standing 6 feet 6 inches tall and weighing 256 pounds, Bates has leveraged his physicality effectively in his professional role. During his time with the Commanders, Bates has become known for his reliable hands and blocking capabilities. In the 2025 season, Bates played in 14 games, starting in 10 of them. He recorded 9 receptions on 14 targets, amassing 90 receiving yards with an average of 10 yards per reception. His longest reception was for 22 yards, showcasing his ability to make significant plays down the field. Despite not scoring any touchdowns, Bates contributed to 4 first downs, demonstrating his utility in crucial situations. Bates' college tenure at Boise State in the Mountain West Conference laid a solid foundation for his professional journey, where he continues to develop his skills and impact on the field. With a strong work ethic and consistent performance, John Bates remains a vital asset to the Commanders' offensive lineup.