Brenden Bates

Brenden Bates (born October 17, 1999) is an American professional football tight end. He played college football for the Kentucky Wildcats and was signed by the Chicago Bears as an undrafted free agent in .

Early life Bates was born on October 17, 1999, in Cincinnati, Ohio. Both his parents, his two siblings, and his grandfather each played collegiate sports. In addition to his pass catching abilities, he was also considered a top blocker; he told the Lexington Herald-Leader that "I take pride in blocking. I just love moving people against their will." He committed to play college football for the Kentucky Wildcats.

College career As a true freshman at Kentucky in 2018, Bates redshirted, appearing in two games. The following season, he appeared in 13 games on the special teams unit. He played in only six games in 2020 due to injury, making his first career catch that year. He returned for a final season in 2023, as all players were given an extra year of eligibility due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In his final year, he caught four passes for 89 yards. He finished his collegiate career having recorded 26 catches for 272 yards and two touchdowns, while having started 25 of the 58 games in which he appeared.

Professional career

Chicago Bears On May 9, 2024, after going unselected in the 2024 NFL draft, Bates signed with the Chicago Bears as an undrafted free agent. He was a standout performer in the preseason, catching six passes for 100 yards. On August 27, he was waived by the Bears as part of final roster cuts.

New York Jets On August 28, 2024, Bates was claimed off waivers by the New York Jets. On October 17, he was released by the Jets and re-signed to the practice squad two days later.

Cleveland Browns On December 18, 2024, Bates was signed off the Jets' practice squad to the Cleveland Browns' active roster after Nick Chubb was placed on injured reserve.

On August 26, 2025, Bates was named to the initial 53-man roster. On August 27, he was waived by the Browns and re-signed to the practice squad the following day

Houston Texans On September 17, 2025, Bates was signed by the Houston Texans off the Browns' practice squad. He made three appearances for Houston, recording two receptions for 23 yards. Bates was waived on October 25.

Cleveland Browns (second stint) On October 27, 2025, Bates was claimed off waivers by the Cleveland Browns.

On April 6, 2026, Bates re-signed with the Browns. On August 26, 2026, Bates was waived with an injury settlement.