The Derwin James contract extension will have an impact on the next deal of Cincinnati Bengals safety Jessie Bates.
But the effect of which may differ, depending on who you ask.
James’ four-year, $76.4 million deal with $42 million guaranteed was negotiated by David Mulugheta, who is also Bates’ agent.
Likewise, the two-time First-Team All-Pro plays the same position as Bates.
Therefore, it’s highly possible that Bates will get the extension he deserves.
However, it’s uncertain if he will get it from the Bengals given that he was only offered a franchise tag worth $12.9 million.
That’s why the team’s fans have accepted that 2022 might be his last season with the squad, if he shows up at all.
Any hope we had of keeping Jessie Bates probably just flew out of the window.
Don’t let this disappoint you tho, it’s just part of the business.
If you want Joe, JaMarr, and Tee together long term, sacrifices have to be made.
It’s almost #whodey season. Be happy lol. https://t.co/ddsphVpHqW
— The Nati King (@thenatiking) August 17, 2022
We’re never keeping Jessie Bates 😭😭 man needs to go get his. Guess having too many good players aint the worst problem to have 😩 https://t.co/wEcYpBd3kH
— eric (@contourglobe) August 17, 2022
Those tweets do point out the good problem the Bengals will have.
While they might lose Bates after the upcoming season, they must prepare enough cap space to extend Tee Higgins, Ja’Marr Chase, and Joe Burrow.
But some fans believe that losing Bates would create much of an impact because Dax Hill will take over.
Prediction: Dax Hill plays so well this year that the front office doesn’t franchise tag Jessie Bates for a second time and lets him walk.
— Burrow to Chase 🙌🏽 (@DawgsAndBengals) August 15, 2022
It remains to be seen if Hill lives up to the billing.
If he does, the Bengals’ pass defense is in good hands.
How Much Money Will Bates Get?
Having a great 2022 season for Cincinnati would turn a lot of heads for Bates.
What’s that you say?
Jessie Bates will be one of the hottest free agents in the 2023 offseason?
At least 25-30 teams should pursuing him next offseason.
— Jared Feinberg (@JRodNFLDraft) August 17, 2022
Still, it’s impossible for him to get a deal near what James averages because the discrepancy of their talent level is wide.
Derwin James has been the best and most versatile safety (when healthy) since entering the league.
Him and Jessie Bates are not the same player so let's not even start the conversation please and thank you.
— Andrew Russell (@Andrew_Russell7) August 17, 2022
But if previous contracts were to be used as leverage by Bates and Mulugheta, it would be difficult to see him get a deal comparable to James.
He might not be even worth the same as Minkah Fitzpatrick ($18.2 million annual average value), Jamal Adams ($17.5 million AAV), Harrison Smith ($16 million), Justin Simmons ($15.2 million), and Budda Baker ($14.75 million).
Therefore, a $15 million annual average value is a fair ceiling for Bates.
NEXT: Bengals Insider Reveals What Is Next For Jessie Bates