The Cincinnati Bengals applied the franchise tag on safety Jessie Bates on Monday afternoon. With the franchise tag deadline set for Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET, by tagging Bates, the team now has more time to work on a long-term extension with one of their best players.
“Jessie has been an important part of this organization both on the field and in the locker room,” said Bengals head coach Zac Taylor. “I’m excited about the opportunity for Jessie to be with us again this year as we continue to improve our team.”
Bates, 25, is in the market for a new deal after four seasons with the Bengals.