While Joe Burrow and the Cincinnati Bengals' offense shined at times throughout the playoffs, it was really their defense that sparked their Super Bowl run. They handled business against some of the league's best offenses. Despite being less heralded, they were arguably more important than the offense.
Regardless of which side of the ball was better for the Bengals, they need to keep as many of the key contributors as possible. Jessie Bates is one of those key players. He solidified Cincinnati's secondary, was one of their premier tacklers last season (ranking first in solo tackles) and earned All-Pro Second Team honors in 2020.
According to USA Today's Tyler Dragon, the Bengals are likely to franchise tag Bates and negotiate a long-term extension.
The Bengals are likely going to franchise tag Jessie Bates as they continue to try to negotiate a long-term extension with the safety, according to a person with direct knowledge of the situation.
— Tyler Dragon (@TheTylerDragon) March 5, 2022
Although the Bengals still have the time to negotiate a contract with Bates, tagging him can be risky. He has already said that he doesn't want to receive the tag, which is a risky move when a long-term contract doesn't follow. Going against his wishes doesn't mean he's guaranteed to leave but it is not a great look for the team as they look to lock in one of their best defensive players.
With key linebacker Logan Wilson's recovery from shoulder surgery making his season uncertain, the Bengals can't afford to lose any key defenders. Bates is just 25 years old and could be a key player on future Super Bowl contenders if he remains in the black and orange.
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