Nick Gates

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

The Bills taking a low-risk flyer on Nick Gates at $1.1M earns a **D+ CVI**, reflecting a below-average value proposition for an unproven interior lineman. While the financial commitment is minimal for a guard spot, Gates enters as essentially replacement-level talent without the track record to justify even this modest investment. The one-year structure does provide Buffalo with easy escape flexibility, but they're essentially paying starter money for a player who hasn't demonstrated he can consistently handle NFL-caliber interior pass rush or run blocking schemes. At 28 years old, Gates is past the typical developmental window where teams might expect significant improvement, making this more of a depth signing disguised as potential starter acquisition. The Bills likely view this as filling a roster spot rather than adding meaningful competition to their offensive line, though the short-term nature keeps the downside contained.

Performance Analysis

Nick Gates earns an F grade as a guard who has been unable to overcome the devastating leg injury that derailed his career. His time with the Giants showed a player who was developing into a quality starter before the injury changed everything. Buffalo is giving him a chance, but the performance hasn't returned to pre-injury levels. The physical and psychological recovery from his type of injury is one of the most challenging processes in professional sports. Gates deserves credit for continuing to fight, even if the results haven't matched the effort.