Saints: 3 replacements for Marcus Williams if he leaves next offseason

1. Jessie Bates III

Jessie Bates III is not a name many people know about in the NFL, and that’s a shame. He’s become one of the more consistent safeties in the league since the Cincinnati Bengals drafted him in 2018. He earned a Pro Football Focus grade of 90.1 last year, and he deserved it. He tallied 87 solo tackles, three interceptions and allowed only 19 receptions as the main defender last season. Given that the Bengals are a few years away from truly being competitive, the Saints could lure Bates away with their win-now roster.

The Saints roster is loaded with talent, and they also have the experience to become an immediate playoff contender. The future is bright with Joe Burrow in Cincy, but it’s going to take some time. If Bates wants to win now, he’d consider signing with the Saints next offseason. They have the talent, the coaching, and the experience. Bates would be the perfect puzzle piece to complement a stout New Orleans defense.

Bates will be a free agent next offseason, and it’s unknown whether he will re-sign with them. Based on how their season goes, he could want a new start with a true contending team. The New Orleans Saints would be more than happy to welcome the former second-round pick, especially if Marcus Williams walks after the 2021 season.