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An update on extension talks between the Cincinnati Bengals and star safety Jessie Bates won’t provide fans with what they want to hear.
According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, the Bengals and Bates aren’t expected to reach an extension right now:
“The #Bengals and safety Jesse Bates III are not expected to reach a contract extension at this time, per source. Sides not progressing toward a deal. Bates, a 2022 free agent, is a major player coming off three interceptions, 15 pass breakups a year ago.”
It’s a bit of a shocking turn of events considering Bates has made it clear he wants to stay in town and the Bengals know what they have with one of the league’s best safeties, never mind a core locker room piece.
After the Bengals worked out an extension with Sam Hubbard, getting Bates done was the next logical step to this offseason. The summer is typically when the Bengals like to get these matters done, but that doesn’t mean an extension can’t be worked out at a later date.
One of the best safeties in the league and easily the best player on the roster, Bates would undoubtedly earn a franchise tag if push comes to shove and the two can’t work something out in the near future.
The #Bengals and safety Jesse Bates III are not expected to reach a contract extension at this time, per source. Sides not progressing toward a deal. Bates, a 2022 free agent, is a major player coming off three interceptions, 15 pass breakups a year ago.
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) August 10, 2021
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