Bills stand to lose Bates after OL signs Bears’ offer sheet
By JOHN WAWROW
AP Sports Writer
BUFFALO, N.Y. (AP) — A person with direct knowledge of the decision tells The Associated Press that Bills offensive lineman Ryan Bates has agreed to sign an offer sheet with the Chicago Bears. The move puts Buffalo in a position to have to match Chicago’s offer or lose the third-year player without compensation. The person spoke on the condition of anonymity because the discussions are private. The Chicago Tribune first reported the move earlier in the day. The Bills last week retained the restricted free agent’s rights by tendering Bates a one-year, $2.4 million contract offer.