10 NFL players that could still be traded in 2022 offseason
By Andrew Falce
NFL trade target #1: Jessie Bates, S, Cincinnati Bengals
A situation that unraveled rather quickly, Jessie Bates appears to be on the outs with the Bengals as of now. The talented safety was given the franchise tag this offseason, and he has stated he has no intention of signing the tag.
The Bengals don’t appear set to sign him to an extension, thus making this situation a rather dramatic one.
Add in the Bengals going after defensive backs with their top two draft picks and this situation is even murkier. First-round pick Daxton Hill can wear a lot of hats, but he could also comfortably slot in as a free safety.
If the situation with Bates isn’t resolved, he will likely be penciled in to start. They have options if a deal doesn’t get done.
What could work out best for both sides is a tag-and-trade working out. The Bengals find a willing team to take on Bates, they structure a deal, and he gets dealt. No one is denying Bates’s talent, as he is a top safety in the league.
That said, his situation with the Bengals is unraveling. He may be on the move in training camp if this situation continues to devolve.
While the majority of the significant moves of the offseason are done, there are still some players that could be dealt away.
While it may not happen until training camp gets underway, don’t be surprised to see some players on the move. In particular, any of these ten players could wind up being traded away before the regular season opens.