John Bates was a draft pick of the Ron Rivera era, but he had a key role as a blocker for last season’s surprise Commanders…and in addition to being one of the few Rivera-era picks to stick around in 2024, he’s sticking around for a while after signing a three-year contract this week.
Clearly, the Commanders’ new regime likes what he brings to the table, but as he told Grant & Tobi on Thursday when he joined the guys, it’s the culture they brought to the table that made him want to stick around.
“The difference from a culture standpoint and the energy...I mean, you go in the building now and it's like everyone in that building has energy and is excited to see each other, and it's not just like transactional relationships – it’s true, authentic relationships where you can stop anyone in the hallway and say what’s up and have a real conversation,” Bates said. “I think that’s the cool thing about like what AP and DQ have done with the culture. They've made it a true like family environment and you can feel that, and it's just so different than before, because you really feel like you're with your family no matter who's in that building.”
Definitely a stark difference from the Rivera era.
“It’s been really special to be a part of, and just see the change over the last few years,” Bates said. “It’s truly a special place.”
Take a listen to Bates’ entire visit with Grant & Tobi above!