Cincinnati Bengals safety Jessie Bates III. Joseph Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports

Browns tabbed as ideal landing spot for top free agent safety

By Michael Gallagher | Last updated 2/25/23

Although their top two leading tacklers this season were both safeties, ESPN’s Matt Bowen believes the Cleveland Browns could use an upgrade at the position.

In his recent column where he named the best team fits for the top 50 available players, Bowen made the case that the Browns should make a run at Cincinnati Bengals safety Jessie Bates.

“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. … Bates, who played on the franchise tag last season, is in line for a long-term deal.”

#Bengals

Vonn Bell’s INT in overtime. Looking up the deep crossing route here.

There’s the range from Jessie Bates in the post. He cover some ground. And finish on the ball. @NFLMatchup pic.twitter.com/R2q4XTHxI0
— Matt Bowen (@MattBowen41) February 1, 2022

Bates has a projected market value of $14M per year, according to Spotrac. Signing the 25-year-old former second team All-Pro, who ESPN has as the 11th-best player available in free agency, likely means Cleveland would part ways with fellow safety John Johnson III — a move that could save $9.75M if done post-June 1.

Johnson III, who’s entering the final year of a three-year contract, had a solid season in 2022, posting 101 tackles, two forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and an interception in 17 games. For comparison, Bates had 71 tackles, eight passes defensed, four interceptions and a forced fumble this year.

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