4 Washington Commanders players facing a fight for new deals in 2024
By Dean Jones
There is a lot on the line for most Washington Commanders players next season. Surviving general manager Adam Peters' initial roster cull was just the start. Each roster member is striving to cement their status as an important piece of the puzzle moving forward. Anything less could see their time with the franchise come to an abrupt end.
Peters is a business-first guy who won't hesitate to do what he thinks is best for the organization. The Commanders didn't get anywhere fast under previous regimes without this approach. It's been a refreshing change of pace during his first offseason as the team's new leader in the front office.
The Commanders are in a good spot financially to tie down core pieces and find additional reinforcements in the coming years. Peters deserves credit for spending wisely this offseason, opting for shorter-term contracts with increased flexibility depending on how things play out.
This raises the stakes for those looking to extend their stay with the Commanders. With this in mind, here are four players facing a fight to secure new deals in 2024.
John Bates - Commanders TE
The Washington Commanders gave their tight end options a much-needed boost this offseason. Those in power spent the No. 53 overall selection on Ben Sinnott as a potential long-term mainstay at the position. They also signed veteran free agent Zach Ertz for short-term assistance after Logan Thomas became an expected salary-cap casualty.
John Bates should make the team as a blocking specialist. It's a role he's occupied over the last couple of years and done well overall. However, the former Boise State standout needs to impress a new set of coaches in pursuit of an extended stay beyond the upcoming campaign.
Bates is entering the final year of his rookie deal with no guarantees on his future. Anything less than a profitable campaign could see the Commanders go in a different direction, especially if Ertz does enough to get another year despite his advancing age.