A Big Reunion in Madrid
When the Cincinnati Bengals step onto the field at the Santiago Bernabeu in Madrid on Sunday to face the Atlanta Falcons, they will face a familiar and difficult challenge. They must figure out how to account for safety Jessie Bates III. From 2018 to 2022, Bates was a top playmaker for Cincinnati, helping the team reach the Super Bowl at the end of the 2021 season.
Bates left Cincinnati in free agency and has spent the past four seasons with the Falcons. Ahead of the game, Bates admitted that moving to Atlanta changed his life and family trajectory. At the same time, he noted the irony that neither team has reached the playoffs since his departure.
Salary Cap Realities
Bates was drafted by Cincinnati in the second round in 2018. Bengals coach Zac Taylor praised the player's steady growth during his first five seasons with the franchise, calling him a great example of continuous improvement. Taylor also praised Bates for his positive impact in the locker room and the community.
However, the business side of the NFL intervened. With quarterback Joe Burrow and the passing attack performing at a high level, the Bengals directed their financial resources toward the offense. Letting Bates leave proved costly. Bates signed a four-year deal with Atlanta, while Cincinnati spent millions trying to replace him through various contracts and draft picks, including current safety options.
Continued Success for Bates
While team success has eluded both franchises recently, Bates has continued to rack up individual accolades. He reached the Pro Bowl in 2023 with Atlanta and earned second-team All-Pro honors twice. Falcons defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich described Bates as one of the best players he has encountered in nearly thirty years in the league.
On Sunday, the Bengals will finally have to play against the safety they once relied upon. Bates acknowledged that facing his former team will be exciting and bittersweet, calling his time in Cincinnati some of the best moments of his life.
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