Bears to acquire guard Ryan Bates in trade with Bills

(670 The Score) The Bears have reached a deal to acquire veteran offensive lineman Ryan Bates from the Bills in exchange for a 2024 fifth-round pick, the two teams announced Monday evening.

Bates, 27, has played in 73 games (19 starts) over five seasons with the Bills. Chicago signed him to an offer sheet two years ago as a restricted free agent, but Buffalo matched the offer to retain him. Bates played in just 35 snaps on offense last season while serving in a reserve role.

Bates' role is not yet clear, though the Bears could immediately consider him as veteran depth until working through free agency and the NFL Draft. Chicago is set to return four starters on the offensive line in left tackle Braxton Jones, left guard Teven Jenkins, right guard Nate Davis and right tackle Darnell Wright.

The trade will become official on March 13 at the start of the NFL's new league year. The deal is also pending a physical by Bates.

Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago’s sports scene and more for 670TheScore.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670 .