Jessie Bates to the Eagles? Three hypothetical trades that make sense

The Eagles have had an incredible offseason up to this point as the stars continue to align for Howie Roseman and company. There’s definitely a chance of being over-aggressive, but when golden opportunities come up, it’s hard not to take a swing. As far as the Eagles go, Howie may have one more move up his sleeve in the way of acquiring Jessie Bates.

Jessie Bates has told the Bengals that he will not play under the franchise tag. Bates is a 25-year-old player who’s been a stud over the last four years with the Bengals. The Bengals may not be in position to pay Bates big money, especially with the needs that they have on their team.

Fortunately for both the Bengals and the Eagles, there appears to be a sense of mutual benefit in a trade. After filling the team’s CB2 spot, Roseman should be in the market for a starting safety while the Bengals should be in the market for some offensive line help. Let’s take a look at some possible trade options.

Andre Dillard, a 2023 2nd round pick, and a 2023 5th round pick for Jessie Bates.

This move favors Philly but it makes sense for the Bengals. You get a legit starting left tackle for the next decade or so while also gaining a day 2 pick and a 5th round pick that you could flip later on. The Bengals are in desperate need of some offensive line help and Dillard is still young enough to be a cornerstone piece.

The Eagles would certainly look to lock in the young safety to an extension before the trade as they did with A.J. Brown. A win-win for all parties involved.

Trade 2: 2023 1st round pick and a 2023 3rd round pick for Jessie Bates.

Over the last several years we’ve seen players like Jamal Adams and Minkah Fitzpatrick get traded for first-round picks and more, but Bates isn’t at the same level as those guys just yet. Plus, neither player was threatening to not play. While Bates has his worth, the Bengals don’t have much leverage to get cute in trade negotiations with the Eagles.

Trade 3: Andre Dillard, Jalen Reagor, and a 2023 2nd round pick for Jessie Bates.

Who says no to this? You give Joe Burrow another weapon while also adding some protection and a day 2 pick that could result in the replacement of Jessie Bates. The Eagles move away from both projects and start fresh with their revamped roster while adding a significant defensive piece that could help catapult Johnathan Gannon’s defense to the next level.

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