John Bates Stats & Bio | Commanders Tight End

About John Bates

John Bates is a tight end for the Washington Commanders, wearing jersey number 87 and bringing a commanding physical presence to the field at 6'5" and 256 pounds. Born on November 6, 1997, in Nyssa, Oregon, Bates developed his football foundation far from the national spotlight before earning his place at the highest level of the sport. He honed his skills at Boise State University, where his size, athleticism, and blocking ability caught the attention of NFL scouts. Known for his reliability and physicality, Bates contributes both as a pass-catching threat and a versatile blocker in Washington's offensive scheme. His journey from a small town in eastern Oregon to the NFL is a testament to his dedication, perseverance, and relentless work ethic on and off the field.

Updated: Mar 7, 2026