Jessie Bates III Fantasy

The Cincinnati Bengals and star safety Jessie Bates haven't engaged in extension talks since the team used its franchise tag on him back in March, according to Tyler Dragon of USA TODAY. Dragon adds that "there's been no movement" on that front. Bates appeared in 15 games this past season, tallying 88 tackles, one fumble recovery, and one interception. He was also instrumental during the Bengals' four-game playoff run as he broke up six passes and picked off two. The two sides have until July 15th to finalize an extension. Otherwise, Bates will become a free agent next winter.

Apr. 10th • 9:32 AM

The Cincinnati Bengals placed the franchise tag on star safety Jessie Bates on Monday, according to a source. The Bengals were expected to use the tag on Bates all along, as a long-term deal between Bates and the Bengals appears unlikely before the deadline this summer. Tagging the 25-year-old will cost the team around $13 million in salary cap space this year. Bates has said that he doesn't want to play on the franchise tag, so this could be a situation worth watching ahead of training camp if he does not come to an agreement on a long-term deal. After three straight seasons of 100-plus combined tackles, Bates took a step back in 2021, recording 88 tackles (67 solo), one interception and four passes defensed in 15 regular season games. Regardless, he should still be a starting option in IDP leagues in 2022.

Mar. 7th • 3:29 PM

Cincinnati Bengals safety Jessie Bates III is expected to receive the franchise tag for the 2022 season, with the hope that the two sides can ultimately work out a long-term contract extension, per Tyler Dragon of USA Today. Bates is coming off another solid season in the Bengals' secondary where he compiled 88 tackles, four passes defended, one interception, and one fumble recovery across 15 games. Cincinnati's defense largely ranked near the middle of the pack last season, but was particularly stout against the run, yielding the fifth-fewest rushing yards per game (102.5). Getting Bates back in any contractual capacity will be an important step in the Bengals' pursuit to win the AFC for a second straight campaign.

Mar. 5th • 1:55 PM