Football Team's John Bates: Steps into increased role

Bates recorded three receptions on four targets for 35 yards in Sunday's 20-16 loss to Philadelphia.

Bates took over the primary tight-end duties in Washington after Ricky Seals-Jones exited the game early with a neck injury. He took advantage by matching his season highs with three receptions and four targets. It's possible that Seals-Jones is held out of Washington's Week 18 matchup against the Giants, meaning Bates could be in position to rack up multiple receptions again to close the campaign.