John

Bates

Thomas missed some practice time this week with a rib injury and an illness. Even if he’s active in Week 12 against the Falcons, he’s not a fantasy option outside the deepest leagues. John Bates would operate as the team’s No. 1 tight end if Thomas is sidelined. Atlanta is allowing the third most tight end receptions this season.

Bates ran a mere eight routes to 22 routes for Logan Thomas, who did not see a target against Minnesota. Neither Washington tight end has any fantasy appeal going forward unless the other one misses time.

Bates only saw one practice this week, but coach Ron Rivera seemed to suggest he was in a good spot to suit up against the Packers. With Logan Thomas (calf) out, Bates should serve as the TE1 for the Commanders. That makes him an option in deeper leagues.

Bates did not practice the first two days of the week, but coach Ron Rivera said the tight end “had a good day” on Friday. With Logan Thomas (calf) out, Bates should have the TE1 role if he can suit up, but he will still just be a desperation option in a game with a 41.5-point total according to BetMGM.

TE John Bates is questionable with a hamstring issue. Last week, Cole Turner operated as the team’s primary pass-catching tight end. He caught both of his targets for 23 yards. Turner would have deep league appeal if Thomas and Bates are declared out against Green Bay.

Back-to-back DNPs coming off the Commanders’ post-Thursday Night Football “mini bye” is a strong indication Bates will join Logan Thomas on the shelf against the Packers. That leaves behind ample opportunity for Cole Turner with backup QB Taylor Heinicke.

Bates was injured in pre-game warmups last Thursday night. Logan Thomas (calf) also remained absent Wednesday. If neither can play, rookie Cole Turner would be in line for increased snaps and targets.

Bates was announced as “questionable” in the first half then never returned. He was coming off a 3/39 Week 5 performance in Logan Thomas’ (calf) absence. Thomas remained sidelined tonight but could be back for Week 7 vs. the Packers. That would end Bates’ brief moment in the sun. That’s if he is even healthy.

Bates got the start with Logan Thomas (calf) being held out of this one. The second-year tight end caught all three of his targets on the afternoon but offered little fantasy upside. You can pass on Bates in Week 6, even if Thomas is held out of Thursday night’s contest against the Bears.

Thomas didn’t pop up on Washington’s injury report until Thursday; an early signal that he might be kept out of Sunday’s Week 5 matchup. With Thomas officially out, John Bates should have an opportunity to serve as the Commanders’ TE1 against the Titans. Bates is a desperation start at best.