After going on a trip to the Super Bowl, the Cincinnati Bengals are already making big moves to retain the core of their roster. Jessie Bates is one of the most underrated safety's in the league and deserves a contract extension for his efforts. However, the front office went in a different direction instead.

According to Dan Graziano, the Bengals have officially placed the franchise tag on Jessie Bates. It's not an ideal situation for Bates, as he literally asked Cincinnati not to do so. Regardless, this team retains one of the best safety's in the league as they aim to make a repeat appearance in the Super Bowl.

Although this move goes against Bates' wishes, this buys both sides some time to negotiate a long-term contract. This is a smart move for the Bengals, as the franchise tag allows the front office to ensure Jessie Bates' return to the roster. With the veteran safety interested in signing a long-term contract extension, he and his agent can negotiate that with the front office until everyone comes in agreement.

Allowing Bates to enter free agency would have been a horrible move for Cincinnati. Instead, the front office smartly places the franchise tag on their star safety. It's unknown if the Bengals and Jessie Bates agree on a long-term deal, but at the very least, they can negotiate the contract situation.

This does go against Jessie Bates' wishes, but it's not the end of the world. There is plenty of time for both sides to reach a conclusion on an extension if they choose to. Keep an eye on the Bengals, as they aim to stack their roster for another possible Super Bowl run.