Phil Bates

Phil Bates has continued to impress Pete Carroll, Russell Wilson and numerous observers throughout the first 10 days of camp. Bob Condotta writes that Bates may be the "Seahawks' next breakout receiving star."

Fantasy Impact

A couple of weeks ago, Bate's chances of earning a roster spot with the defending champs seemed rather slim. Since then, veteran Sidney Rice retired and promising rookie Kevin Norwood has struggled with a lingering foot injury that could result in a trip to IR. This has opened the door for Bates, who appears to kicking it in on his own. The largest WR in Seahawks camp, Bates could end up seeing some red-zone work as he continues to develop, especially since Seattle had to put TE Anthony McCoy on IR last week. Dynasty owners that had an eye on Norwood may want to turn their attention to Bates instead.

ESPN's Terry Blount reports that 3rd year WR Phil Bates is "one of the biggest surprises in camp so far".

Fantasy Impact

The 6'1 220 pound former college QB seems to have taken a great leap forward during the off-season. Coming out of The University of Ohio in 2012, Bates ran a 4.48 40 yard dash, and recorded a 40 inch vertical at his pro day. Bates has eye popping measurables, and is fighting for the 5th WR spot. While he should go undrafted, Bates may have some value if he somehow does not make the Seahawks and gets picked up by a WR needy and/or pass heavy team; much like Kris Durham did in 2013.

After hanging around the Seahawks roster for two years as an UDFA, wide receiver Phil Bates now has his chance to step in and compete for a roster slot.

Fantasy Impact

Coming out of Ohio University, where he mostly played quarterback, Phil Bates has managed to stick around one of the most talented roster in the NFL during his first two seasons, despite going undrafted and switching to a new position. With the retirement of Sidney Rice, there seems to be room for a big, physical WR on the Seahawks roster. At 6'1", 230 lbs, Bates certainly qualifies. Time will tell if Bates has developed enough as a receiver to earn a spot on the final 53 man roster, but if he does make the squad, he could be an interesting late round flyer in dynasty formats and worth keeping an eye on as the regular season progresses.