With John Bates likely to miss the Washington Commanders' home game against the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 3, most fans thought this was an opportunity for 2024 second-round pick Ben Sinnott to generate more involvement. However, that might not be the case.
Bates is among the league's best blocking tight ends. He's a commanding force chipping edge rushers in the trenches or plowing the road at the second level. He's currently nursing a groin injury, but head coach Dan Quinn didn't sound too enthusiastic regarding his involvement.
Contingency plans must be formed. Sinnott seemed to be the most obvious candidate to fill the void, but Quinn's comments about the possible plan if Bates cannot go weren't exactly the most encouraging for the Kansas State product.