John Bates, fresh off of a new haircut, spoke with the Washington sports media after signing his 3-year extension, unofficially reported to be worth $21m. Not unexpectedly, Bates said that he had wanted to stay in Washington and added that he is “thrilled for his family” and himself.

One day after agreeing to bring back Zach Ertz on a one-year contract, the Washington Commanders agreed with John Bates on a three-year deal, a person familiar with the terms said Sunday night, keeping the team’s tight end corps intact for at least another season.