Overview

• The Chicago Bears have traded their 2024 fifth-round pick to the Buffalo Bills for veteran center Ryan Bates, aiming to bolster their offensive line.
• Bates, who has played 73 games with 19 starts, is expected to compete for the starting center position with the Bears.
• The trade, pending Bates' physical, will officially take effect at the start of the new league year on March 13.
• Bates' versatility and experience are seen as valuable assets for the Bears, especially with potential rookie quarterback Caleb Williams.
• The Bills, in turn, gain a modest salary cap relief and an additional fifth-round draft pick, increasing their total draft picks to 11.