Nike, New York Jets, people on football stadium during daytime, Rodgers, Aaron Rodgers
Photo by Izaac Crayton on Unsplash

Why the Jets need to trade for safety Jesse Bates

Many Jets fans (including myself) are excited about the NFL season.

For the first time since 2009, the Jets have expectations coming into the season. I mean, you have Zack Wilson going into his second year. They drafted two potential franchise players during the 2022 NFL Draft with cornerback Ahmad "Sauce" Gardner and Ohio State wide receiver Garrett Wilson. They also signed former Buccaneers safety Jordan Whitehead to a deal. Add the signings of tight ends CJ Uzomah and Tyler Conklin, along with others, and you finally have weapons for Zack Wilson.

However, something is missing and the piece is in Cincinnati. Safety Jesse Bates is that missing piece and would be the perfect fit on defense. For those that don't know, Bates and the Bengals are at an impasse regarding a new contract. The Bengals are determined to franchise tag their safety, while Bates has made it known that he will not play under a franchise tag and is willing to sit out the entire season to get paid.

Let's face it: Many Jets fans are sick of seeing Ashtyn Davis burned by the opponent team's wide receivers. The former third-round pick isn't living up to expectations, so why not replace him with Jesse Bates?

Why the Jets Should Trade For Bates

Imagine a secondary with Jordan Whitehead and Jesse Bates? Scary right? Bates is only 25 years old and has already established himself as one of the best safeties in the NFL.

Look at what he has done so far:

It is absurd that the Bengals have not signed Bates to a long-term deal, but that is none of the Jets' business. If the defense wants to take a big step forward, I will do everything in my power to acquire Jesse Bates. If they acquired Bates, the Jets would easily have one of the best defenses in the NFL.

Better strike while the iron is hot Jets!