Bates Eyes Cincinnati Return Ahead of Trade Deadline
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Atlanta Falcons safety Jessie Bates III admits he still holds a fondness for the Bengals as the team struggles with safety production.
Atlanta Falcons safety Jessie Bates III still thinks about his time with the Cincinnati Bengals, as first reported by Sports Illustrated. Speaking with FOX Sports' Jordan Schultz, Bates admitted that the Bengals hold a special place in his heart, noting that while he understood the team's decision to let him go for financial reasons years ago to prioritize offensive playmakers, he remains open to a reunion.
Bates is currently playing on an expiring contract with a $7.23 million cap hit and is scheduled to become a free agent in March. His performance has remained elite; Sports Illustrated reports he holds an 84.1 Pro Football Focus grade this season, ranking second among qualified safeties.
The timing of these admissions coincides with a scheduled matchup between the Falcons and Bengals in Madrid on Nov. 9, just two days before the NFL trade deadline. Cincinnati could potentially benefit from a trade for Bates, as the team's current safety, Bryan Cook, has struggled in 2026. According to Sports Illustrated, Cook has posted a career-low 44.7 PFF grade due to injuries or other factors.
While Bates has voiced his interest, a move depends on the Atlanta Falcons' willingness to deal. Sports Illustrated notes that a trade would likely require Atlanta to suffer losses against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Bengals before the organization would consider moving the veteran safety.