The regression of Jessie Bates

[Nicomo Cosca]

I know Bengals twitter loves Jessie Bates. I think he is a key part of this defense and future of the franchise as well. But facts are facts, and right now, he ain't getting it done. Of 93 qual. Safeties:

61.4 PFF Grade (53rd)
12.7% MT rate (T-41st)
113.2 Pass Rtg All. (32nd)

— Andrew Russell (@PFF_AndrewR) November 1, 2021

Only 1 PD and 1 INT in the 7 games he’s played.

A bit of a step back would be one thing, but he’s been flat out bad in a lot of these games. It will be very interesting to see how the team handles his contract negotiations if this continues. I’m a big fan of the guy, and I honestly have no idea what’s going on with him, but I hope he turns it on in the 2nd half of the season.