The Chicago Bears are in the process of signing a former target in free agency.
Nearly two years after Buffalo Bills offensive lineman Ryan Bates signed a four-year offer sheet, the Bills finally signed Chicago Bears acquire veteran offensive lineman.
Bears send 2024 fifth-round pick to Bills for Bates.Bates’ salary cap hit is $5.4 million per game. The next two seasons before becoming an unrestricted free agent after the 2025 season.
With the release of veteran Cody Whitehair last month and the possibility that the Bruins won’t bring back Lucas Patrick, the Bruins’ offensive line is likely to do after that season.
After starting 15 games for the Bills in the 2022 season, Bates was limited to a backup role last season but played in all 17 regular season games.
The Chicago Bears are beginning an offensive line overhaul former free agency target.
It’s worth noting that Bates has experience under center. Bats began the 2022 season at 135 under center.
Speculation has been based on the idea that the Bears wanted to offer a veteran center to a rookie quarterback like Caleb Williams.
Given Bates’ experience at right tackle, it’s not out of the question that they could make a workout competition with Nate Davis.
Davis struggled in the first year of his three-year deal with the Bruins, leading many to believe the Bruins may be looking to upgrade this offseason.
Otherwise, this year’s fifth-round pick is a high price. pay for a veteran who would only act as a swing guard.
One scenario could see Bates start the season as the team’s center before stepping aside as the starter the team selects in April’s draft..