Cincinnati Bengals head coach Zac Taylor had much praise for former safety Jessie Bates III before Sunday's battle against the Atlanta Falcons in Madrid, Spain.
Bates, who spent five seasons in Cincinnati before joining Atlanta in 2023, is prepping to compete versus his former team for the first time since his departure.
Taylor discussed the former Bengals standout during his Monday, Nov. 2 press conference, expressing admiration for his development and continued success.
"I think we all love Jessie," Taylor said, according to the Cincinnati Enquirer.
The Bengals selected Bates in the second round of the 2018 NFL draft. He became a vital piece of Cincinnati's secondary, helping the franchise reach Super Bowl LVI following the 2021 season.
Taylor
coached Bates from 2019 through 2022. The Bengals' coach focused on the safety's growth during their four seasons together.
"I don't usually spend this much time praising the other team, but Jessie's one that I've always really liked," Taylor said, per Bengals.com.
Taylor also credited Bates for improving his tackling, communication and ability to create turnovers throughout his time in Cincinnati.
Bates earned a Pro Bowl selection with Atlanta in 2023 and has remained an important part of the Falcons' defense.
Despite the mutual respect, Taylor made clear that his love for Bates wouldn't change Cincinnati's approach to Sunday's matchup.
The Bengals stand at 5-2, while the Falcons sit at 3-5.
This article originally appeared on Bengals Wire: Zac Taylor makes feelings clear about ex-Bengals star Jessie Bates III
