:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/48591651/GettyImages-502799866.0.jpg)
Any time we can flip a recruit from one of the big boys, it's a good day. Well, technically it was a good night because this commitment came at around 11, so it was LATE. I totally whiffed on my recruiting article on Sunday stating I didn't anticipate us taking another TE. So, of course, we take another TE.
Bates is listed a 6'6 210 lbs out of Lebanon High School in Lebanon, Oregon. Scout has him as a 2-star recruit while Rivals and 247Sports have him listed as a 3-star. His only other offer was Oregon State, and even though they have been not so great recently, they're still a P12 school.
He has incredible range, and his 4.7 40 speed is stellar for a TE. He has great athleticism and should provide a great target for Rypien to throw to. At 210 lbs, he could stand to put on some weight. I'm not sure he should put on a ton as I'm not sure EVERY TE needs to excel at both blocking and catching. I see Bates as more of a receiving TE, so I'd anticipate 15-20lbs max, but he might not even need that much.
Regardless, I'd like to welcome John to the Blue. Go Broncos!