The Real Reason the Bears Want Ryan Bates at Center Revealed…
It came as a surprise when the Chicago Bears traded a 5th round pick to the Buffalo Bills for Ryan Bates. Many recalled the team’s unsuccessful attempt to sign him as a restricted free agent in 2022. Two years later, GM Ryan Poles saw another chance to acquire someone he highly regarded, leading to the trade. The uncertainty about Bates’ role in Chicago stemmed from his history as a guard, while the Bears already had those positions covered with Teven Jenkins and Nate Davis. Trading for a backup guard seemed unlikely.
Rumors soon emerged that the Bears intended to move Bates to center. Though Bates had limited experience at the position from his time in Buffalo, the decision was puzzling since there were more seasoned centers available. Tape analyst Brett Kollman of The Film Room shed light on this during an interview on 670 The Score, highlighting the scheme the Bears would implement under new offensive coordinator Shane Waldron.
“They’re going to run a lot of inside zone,” Kollman explained. “You’re going to see a lot of split zone where the tight end moves across the backside to block, creating a cutback lane. This will lead to some exciting RPO (run-pass option) and play action looks. Caleb will likely be under center more than he was at USC.”
Inside zone is a staple of modern offenses, designed to create movement between the tackles. It requires a center who can move defensive linemen and reach the second level, both of which Bates demonstrated in Buffalo.
Ryan Bates possesses the traits needed for this offense. While not the biggest or most athletic, his mix of upper-body strength and lower-body explosion allows him to drive defenders and move in space, effectively blocking linebackers and defensive backs downfield. The Bears saw this firsthand when Bates played center against them in 2022 at Soldier Field, where he consistently disrupted their defense.
This situation underscores the complexity of football. Unlike baseball or basketball, where a talented player can often excel regardless of the team, football demands a good fit within specific schemes. Lucas Patrick would not have been suitable for an inside-zone system, but Ryan Bates is. Though he may not be the long-term solution at center, he can help the team perform effectively in the short term.
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