ESPN Picks Browns As Best Fit For Bengals Safety Jessie Bates III

The safety is not expected to return to the Queen City next season.

CINCINNATI — ESPN's Matt Bowen gave out his top team fits for 2023 NFL free agents this week and attached Jessie Bates III to a division rival.

Bowen thinks Bates fits best with the Cleveland Browns.

"The Browns will need to do some work with the cap, but Bates upgrades a Cleveland defense that needs better play and more ball production at the safety position," Bowen wrote. "Bates has the post and split-field range to cover some grass, along with the scheme versatility to play from depth or spin down in coverage. He logged four interceptions and eight pass breakups last year in Cincinnati, and he has posted 14 career interceptions over five pro seasons. Bates, who played on the franchise tag last season, is in line for a long-term deal."

The safety is nearly a lock to leave Cincinnati. The only realistic path to a return is if the market doesn't come close to what he's looking for, which seems unlikely.

Fans surely don't want to see him stay in the same division though, let alone the same state. Spotrac projects Bates to sign a deal worth $14 million per year.

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