49ers would love to poach these 5 Super Bowl free agents for 2022

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Cooper Kupp #10 of the Los Angeles Rams runs with the ball as Jessie Bates #30 and Vonn Bell #24 of the Cincinnati Bengals defend(Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) /

49ers Free-Agent Target No. 3: S Jessie Bates, Bengals

This is a bit of a dark horse pick because if the 49ers do spend big money on NFL free agency, it likely won’t be on a safety. But on a defensive philosophy that values strong coverage and a minimal pass rush, Jessie Bates could very well be a target.

It all will hinge on Jaquiski Tartt and his future with the organization. Tartt has been a solid safety since being drafted by San Francisco, but he’s been injured frequently over his career and turns 30 years old this year, too.

The 49ers would prefer to re-sign Tartt, but they can’t afford to go over the odds for someone like that.

Bates would objectively be an upgrade and also is much younger at 25.

The Bengals’ starter is one of the best young safeties in the NFL. He had a slight dip in production for this season but played well in the Super Bowl and looks set for a big payday.

If the Niners decide they need to spend big in free agency, Bates would appeal to them given his ability to generate turnovers. While he didn’t feature as much in that regard last season, he should be able to rebound with whichever team he signs for.