The Chicago Bears’ decision regarding Justin Fields and their No. 1 pick remains uncertain, but recent developments shed light on their offensive line plans.
On Monday, the Buffalo Bills revealed they had traded center Ryan Bates to the Bears in exchange for a fifth-round pick in the upcoming 2024 draft.
Bates began his NFL journey as an undrafted free agent from Penn State in 2019, initially joining the Philadelphia Eagles before being traded to the Bills later that year.
During his five-year tenure with Buffalo, Bates appeared in 73 games and started 19. Notably, he contributed to nine playoff games, starting in four. Although he didn’t secure a starting position in the 2023 regular season, Bates participated in all 17 games.
Bears’ general manager Ryan Poles had previously sought to acquire Bates in 2022, offering him a four-year contract as a restricted free agent. However, the Bills exercised their right to match the offer.
Chicago’s offensive line struggled in the previous season, allowing 50 sacks, with Fields enduring 44 of them, ranking fifth-highest in the league. Bates’ addition is anticipated to bolster protection for the Bears’ quarterback, whoever that may be in the 2024 season.
The upcoming offseason holds significant weight for the Bears’ future prospects. Holding both the No. 1 and No. 9 picks, courtesy of last year’s trade with the Carolina Panthers, Chicago has the opportunity to secure top-tier talent from a loaded draft class.
Securing Bates marks a positive stride for the Bears as they navigate through their rebuilding phase, aiming to solidify their roster for future success.
