Zac Taylor apologizes to Jessie Bates over jersey number change
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 4, 2026, 9:30 AM
Last updated Jun 4, 2026
Bengals coach Zac Taylor recently reached out to Falcons safety Jessie Bates regarding a jersey number. Taylor admitted that he previously denied Bates the opportunity to wear number three but ultimately decided to allow it after a conversation prompted by cornerback DJ Turner's number change to zero. Taylor acknowledged his oversight and expressed appreciation for Bates. This decision reflects the Bengals' continued relationship with Bates, who left the team for the Falcons in free agency.
- •Zac Taylor contacted Jessie Bates to apologize about jersey number issues.
- •Bates had wanted to wear number three, which Taylor initially denied.
- •DJ Turner's switch to number zero led to the conversation.
- •Taylor noted that Bates was instrumental for the organization.
- •Bates now plays for the Atlanta Falcons after leaving the Bengals.
- 9:30 AMYahoo Sports — Why Zac Taylor apologized to Falcons’ Jessie Bates recently
"Bengals coach Zac Taylor contacted Jessie Bates for an interesting reason.
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