While a number of high-profile NFL quarterbacks continue to wait in the unemployment line–a list that includes names like Jay Cutler and Colin Kaepernick–former UNC signal-caller T.J. Yates found himself a job on Monday with the Buffalo Bills.
Yates was signed to the Bills’ 90-man roster, and is expected to slide into the third spot on the depth chart behind Tyrod Taylor and Cardale Jones.
A former fifth-round draft choice by the Houston Texans back in 2011, Yates has started just seven games during his career–but has found a comfortable niche as a backup.
Perhaps his most memorable NFL moment came during his rookie season with the Texans, when he led the team to a playoff victory over the Cincinnati Bengals.
He spent much of last season out of football, before signing with the Miami Dolphins down the stretch when their starting quarterback, Ryan Tannehill, went down with a torn ACL.
Yates never saw a snap during his time in Miami, however, before his contract expired at the end of the season.
His role in Buffalo will largely be determined by the team’s decisions come draft day.
If the Bills choose a young quarterback to try and develop, Yates’ days will likely be numbered. Should they stick with the status quo, Yates could provide depth and experience at the sport’s most important position.
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