Jessie Bates III Fantasy

Free-agent safety Jessie Bates is signing an undisclosed deal with the Atlanta Falcons on Monday, according to a source. The Falcons add a much-needed upgrade to their secondary in the form of Bates. The 26-year-old started his career with the Cincinnati Bengals with three straight seasons of 100-plus total tackles. In 16 regular season starts in 2022, he had a career-low 71 tackles (38 solo), a career-high four interceptions, eight passes defensed and a forced fumble for Cincy. He could rebound with his move to Atlanta and the NFC South, but Bates is no longer a top IDP defensive back target heading into the 2023 campaign. UPDATE: Bates signed a four-year, $64.02 million deal.

Mar. 13th • 4:52 PM

Cincinnati Bengals safety Jessie Bates III isn't expected to return to the team, according to NFL insider Jordan Schultz. After months of unsuccessful contract negotiations, the 26-year-old played under the franchise tag during the 2022-23 campaign, finishing with 71 total tackles, the fewest of his career. While Bates was a primary defensive contributor in the postseason, Cincinnati is now focused on retaining Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins, meaning he will likely be suiting up for a new team in 2023-24. However, the All-Pro has an excellent chance to bounce back wherever he ends up next.

Mar. 3rd • 11:42 PM

Cincinnati Bengals safety Jessie Bates III is "as good as gone," according to Jay Morrison of The Athletic, who also covers the team. The 25-year-old has spent his entire five-year career in Cincinnati, amassing 478 total tackles, 43 passes defensed, and 14 interceptions. The Bengals and Bates couldn't agree on a long-term extension last offseason, so the team used the franchise tag on him in March, which he reluctantly signed in August. However, with Cincy already on rocky terms with Bates' representation while prioritizing new deals for Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase, and potentially Tee Higgins, there's a good chance the former Demon Deacon will be playing somewhere else this season. With that said, if Bates doesn't receive a substantial offer from another club, he may sign for less and remain in Cincinnati.

Feb. 23rd • 10:21 PM